How do high-pass filters differ from low-pass filters?

High-pass filters and low-pass filters serve distinct purposes in signal processing based on frequency. High-pass filters are designed to allow signals with frequencies above a certain cutoff frequency to pass through while attenuating signals with frequencies below that threshold. This makes them useful in applications where high-frequency signals need to be isolated from lower frequencies, such as in audio processing or communication systems where it’s important to reduce noise from lower frequency components.

On the other hand, low-pass filters permit low-frequency signals to pass while attenuating higher frequencies. They are often utilized to remove high-frequency noise from signals, providing a smoother output that retains lower frequency data.

The distinguishing characteristic of high-pass filters, allowing only higher frequencies to pass while blocking lower frequencies, is what makes the correct answer stand out. This fundamental difference in function forms the basis for the applications and designs of these filters in various electronic systems.