Acoustic phonons are quasiparticles representing the quantized modes of lattice vibrations that propagate sound waves through a crystal lattice. They play a crucial role in thermal conductivity and the mechanical properties of materials, influencing how heat and sound are transmitted at the atomic level.
Signal processing involves the analysis, manipulation, and synthesis of signals such as sound, images, and scientific measurements to improve transmission, storage, and quality. It is fundamental in various applications, including telecommunications, audio engineering, and biomedical engineering, where it enhances signal clarity and extracts useful information.