Continuous signals are defined as signals that can take on any value within a given range, while discrete signals can only take on specific values at specific points in time or space.
Continuous signals are commonly used in fields such as physics and engineering, where measurements and data are often represented as continuous functions. Discrete signals are used in fields such as computer science and digital signal processing, where data is represented in a binary form.
Yes, a continuous signal can be discretized by taking samples at regular intervals, while a discrete signal can be converted into a continuous signal by interpolating between the discrete data points.
The Nyquist-Shannon sampling theorem states that in order to accurately represent a continuous signal as a discrete signal, the sampling rate must be at least twice the highest frequency present in the continuous signal. This is important in digital signal processing to avoid aliasing and loss of information.
Continuous signals are used in devices such as phones, radios, and televisions to transmit and receive information. Discrete signals are used in digital devices such as computers, calculators, and digital cameras to process and store information.