Final answer:
A flash video file is a compressed format optimized for web streaming, while a source file is the original, editable project file containing raw footage. The former is for broad web compatibility and the latter for high-quality editing.
Step-by-step explanation:
The difference between a flash video file and a source file lies in their purposes and usability within the context of video editing and playback. The flash video file, often saved with an .flv or .f4v extension, is a compressed format designed for efficient delivery over the web. Such files are typically optimized for streaming, with the video already encoded in a way that makes it easy to distribute and view on the internet. On the other hand, a source file refers to the original, uncompressed footage or the project file from a video editing software. This file contains all the raw data and editable components of the video, allowing for full quality editing, including applying effects, cutting, and merging scenes.
When creating videos, a producer or editor works with the source file using video editing software, which offers more flexibility for adjustments. Once the final version of the video is ready, it is often exported to a flash video format for web distribution. The key difference is that while source files provide the best quality and editing capabilities, flash video files are tailored for efficient and broad compatibility with various devices and browsers that support the flash format. However, it is worth noting that with the decline in support for flash technology on the web, other formats like HTML5 video tags and modern codecs are being more widely adopted.