What phenomenon occurs when sound is distorted due to the amplifier's inability to handle the level of signal?

When sound is distorted due to the amplifier's inability to handle the level of signal, the phenomenon that occurs is known as clipping. Clipping happens when the input signal exceeds the maximum limit that the amplifier can process. As a result, the amplitude of the signal is "clipped" or cut off, which leads to a harsh or distorted sound. This often occurs when the volume is turned up too high, causing the peaks of the waveform to be flattened, leading to a square-shaped signal instead of a smooth one.

Clipping can negatively affect the quality of sound in live performances or recordings by introducing unwanted distortion, which can impact the listeners' experience. This is a critical aspect for performers and technicians to monitor when setting up audio equipment to ensure optimal sound quality.