Final answer:
Bounce in mechanical switches refers to undesired rapid contact fluctuations; S-R latch circuits eliminate bounce by stabilizing the output signal to register a single clear signal per switch press.
Step-by-step explanation:
Bounce in mechanical switches refers to the rapid, undesired opening and closing contacts that can occur when a switch is pressed or released. This bouncing effect can cause multiple signals to be sent within a very short period, which can lead to errors in digital circuits.
S-R latch circuits can eliminate bounce by stabilizing the output signal. When the switch is activated, the S-R latch changes its state, but due to its latching feature, subsequent bounces will not affect the circuit until it is reset. This means that for each press of the switch, the S-R latch ensures that only one clear signal is registered.
The practical application of S-R latch circuits in switch debouncing is a cornerstone of creating reliable digital systems where mechanical switches are used.