What is the beat duration for eighth notes?

Eighth notes have a beat duration of half a beat. This means that two eighth notes collectively equal one complete beat. In music, note values define how long a note is held in relation to the overall rhythm. Since eighth notes are shorter in duration than quarter notes, which hold one beat, their value is precisely half that of a quarter note. This understanding is crucial for musicians when composing, playing, or analyzing music, as it helps to maintain the intended rhythm of a piece. This concept allows for more complex rhythms and patterns in compositions, as musicians can combine various note durations to create layers of sound.