Answer:
For a computer to store sound files we need to get the continuous analogue sound waves into discrete binary values:
An analogue sound wave is picked up by a microphone and sent to an Analogue to Digital (ADC) converter in the form of analogue electrical signals. The ADC converts the electrical signals into digital values which can be stored on a computer.
Once in a digital format you can edit sounds with programs such as audacity.
To play digital audio you convert the sound from digital values into analogue electrical signals using the DAC, these signals are then passed to a speaker that vibrating the speaker cone, moving the air to create sound waves and analogue noise.
Analogue to Digital Converter (ADC) - Converts analogue sound into digital signals that can be stored on a computer
Digital to Analogue Converter (DAC) - Converts digital signals stored on a computer into analogue sound that can be played through devices such as speakers
