Entropy encoding

Entropy encoding is a method of compressing data by assigning shorter codes to more common items and longer codes to less common ones. This takes advantage of the varying frequencies of symbols in the data, reducing the overall amount of space needed to store or transmit information. For example, in a text file, the letter 'e' might be encoded with just one bit, while less common letters like 'z' receive longer codes. This technique optimizes efficiency, making it particularly useful in applications like file compression and data transmission, where space and speed matter.