What is dead air?

Dead air refers to a period of silence or lack of communication in a broadcast or conversation. This can happen unintentionally if there is a technical issue with the equipment, or intentionally as a pause for dramatic effect. Dead air can be perceived as awkward or unprofessional, especially in live broadcasts or radio shows where continuous dialogue is expected. It is important for broadcasters and speakers to maintain a steady flow of communication to keep the audience engaged.