Quantization, in the context of signal processing and data compression, refers to the process of mapping a continuous or analog signal to a discrete or digital representation. This involves dividing the range of possible values into a finite number of intervals or levels, and assigning one of these levels to each input signal value. Quantization is a fundamental concept in digital signal processing, image processing, and data compression, as it allows for the efficient storage and transmission of signals and data. By reducing the number of possible signal values, quantization can help reduce the amount of data needed to represent a signal, while still maintaining an acceptable level of fidelity. Different quantization techniques exist, including uniform quantization, non-uniform quantization, and scalar quantization, each with its own advantages and limitations. Overall, quantization plays a crucial role in transforming continuous signals into discreet digital representations, enabling the processing, storage, and transmission of information in a digital form.