What is sensitivity in the context of a receiver?

Sensitivity in the context of a receiver refers specifically to its ability to detect and reproduce weak signals accurately. This characteristic is crucial in scenarios where the incoming signal may be faint due to distance, interference, or other environmental factors. A receiver with high sensitivity is capable of discerning these subtle signals, allowing for clearer audio or data output even when the signal strength is low.

In contrast, the other options describe different aspects of a receiver's performance. The range of frequencies a receiver can handle pertains to its bandwidth capabilities, while noise reduction focuses on the receiver's ability to eliminate unwanted background interference. Lastly, the speed of signal processing relates to how quickly the receiver can process incoming signals, which is not directly tied to its sensitivity. Understanding sensitivity helps in assessing a receiver's effectiveness in various communication scenarios where signal strength can fluctuate significantly.