Bitrate refers to the amount of data processed over a specific period, usually measured in bits per second (bps). It is a crucial factor in determining the quality of audio and video files. Higher bitrates generally result in better quality, as more data is used to represent the sound or image, while lower bitrates can lead to compression artifacts and reduced clarity. In digital media, such as streaming services or MP3 files, bitrate affects both the quality and the size of the file. For example, a video with a higher bitrate will require more bandwidth for streaming but will provide a clearer picture. Conversely, a lower bitrate may save space but can compromise the viewing experience.