Final answer:
The difference between MP3 and WAV files lies in compression. MP3 files use lossy compression to minimize size, while WAV files are uncompressed for higher audio quality.
Step-by-step explanation:
When examining audio file formats, specifically understanding what is the difference between .mp3 and .wav files, we observe two main distinctions: compression and quality. An MP3 file is a compressed audio format that utilizes lossy compression to reduce file size significantly, making it a popular choice for digital music distribution due to its smaller storage requirements and compatibility with various devices. In contrast, WAV files are uncompressed audio formats that provide higher-quality sound but occupy more storage space.
WAV stands for Waveform Audio File Format, often used for professional audio recording and editing because it preserves the original sound without any loss. MP3, which stands for MPEG-1 Audio Layer III, is designed for efficient storage by sacrificing some audio quality, typically imperceptible to the casual listener. The choice between MP3 and WAV often involves considering the need for audio fidelity versus storage and bandwidth constraints.