In audio terms, what frequency is commonly used for 16-bit stereo sound?

The correct frequency commonly used for 16-bit stereo sound is 44,000 Hz, also known as 44.1 kHz. This sample rate was established as the standard for compact discs (CDs) and has become widely adopted in digital audio. The reason this frequency was chosen relates to the Nyquist theorem, which states that to accurately reproduce a sound signal, it must be sampled at least twice the highest frequency present in the audio. Since the upper limit of human hearing is around 20 kHz, sampling at 44.1 kHz allows for effective reproduction of audio up to that limit, preserving audio quality and fidelity.

This frequency has become a benchmark in the audio industry, particularly for music recording and playback. Other frequencies mentioned, while used in different contexts, do not align with the standard for 16-bit stereo sound as widely recognized.