In broadcast audio, what does "S/N ratio" refer to?

The correct answer, Signal-to-Noise Ratio, is a fundamental concept in broadcast audio and many other fields related to sound and communications. The S/N ratio quantifies the level of a desired signal to the level of background noise present in the audio signal. A higher S/N ratio indicates a clearer and more distinguishable signal, which is crucial for maintaining audio fidelity and listener satisfaction in broadcasting.

The concept is pivotal in various applications, including audio equipment performance, where it helps assess how much unwanted noise affects the clarity of an audio signal. In broadcasting, ensuring a high S/N ratio means that the listener can hear the intended audio (like voice or music) clearly over any extraneous noise. This is especially important in environments where background noise might interfere with the quality of the transmitted audio.

It's essential to highlight how the other options deviate from this definition. While "Sound-to-Noise Ratio" might seem plausible, it lacks the precision and common usage of the term "Signal-to-Noise Ratio." The other options also introduce terms such as "Static" and "Narrative," which are not standard phrases associated with measuring audio quality in this context. Thus, the meaning of S/N ratio is best captured by the term "Signal-to-Noise Ratio