Bit width refers to the number of bits used to represent a value in computing. It determines how much information can be stored and processed at one time. For example, a 32-bit system can handle values ranging from -2,147,483,648 to 2,147,483,647, while a 64-bit system can manage much larger numbers, allowing for more complex calculations and larger memory addresses. In digital systems, bit width affects performance and efficiency. Wider bit widths can improve processing power and enable better handling of large data sets, but they also require more memory. Choosing the right bit width is essential for optimizing the balance between speed and resource usage in applications.