Double precision is a computer number format that uses 64 bits to represent a floating-point number. This format allows for a greater range and more accurate representation of decimal values compared to single precision, which uses only 32 bits. Double precision is particularly useful in scientific calculations and applications that require high levels of accuracy. In the context of programming, double precision is often denoted as float64 in languages like Python and C. It can represent very large or very small numbers, making it essential for tasks such as 3D graphics, simulations, and complex mathematical computations.