Definition ∞ The Nyquist-Shannon theorem establishes the minimum sampling rate required to accurately reconstruct a continuous signal from its discrete samples. This fundamental principle in digital signal processing states that the sampling frequency must be at least twice the highest frequency component present in the original analog signal to avoid aliasing. While primarily relevant to telecommunications and audio engineering, its underlying concepts of data integrity and accurate representation hold abstract parallels in digital systems. In a broader sense, it underscores the necessity of sufficient data capture to maintain information fidelity.
Context ∞ While not directly a crypto-specific term, the principles underlying the Nyquist-Shannon theorem can be metaphorically applied to discussions about data integrity, oracle design, and the faithful representation of real-world information on blockchains. News might implicitly reference the need for adequate data points or sampling in decentralized data feeds to prevent misrepresentation or manipulation. Understanding foundational information theory helps appreciate the challenges of reliable data sourcing for smart contracts.