The action of extracting audio, specifically in the MP3 format, from video content hosted on YouTube is a practice with widespread usage. This process allows users to acquire the audio track independently of the video component, enabling offline listening and potential integration into various personal audio libraries or projects. A common example involves obtaining the audio from a musical performance available on the platform for playback on a portable device.
The prevalence of this activity stems from several factors. It offers convenience for those who wish to listen to content without the need for a constant internet connection or the visual element. Furthermore, it permits users to isolate audio segments, such as lectures, podcasts, or music, for focused consumption. The practice has evolved alongside advancements in digital media technology, becoming increasingly accessible through a variety of software applications and online services.
The subsequent sections will delve into the technical aspects, potential legal considerations, and available methods associated with acquiring audio files from online video platforms. These aspects will provide a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted nature of the activity and its surrounding context.
1. Legality
The legal implications associated with extracting audio from YouTube videos are paramount. This action is not inherently legal or illegal; its permissibility is dictated by copyright law and the platform’s terms of service. Understanding these regulations is crucial before engaging in the activity.
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Copyright Ownership
The primary determinant of legality is copyright ownership. If the content is protected by copyright, downloading it without permission from the copyright holder is generally an infringement. This applies even if the content is freely available on YouTube. Copyright law grants exclusive rights to the creator, including the right to reproduce and distribute the work. Violating these rights can lead to legal action.
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Fair Use Doctrine
An exception to copyright law exists in the form of “fair use.” This doctrine allows limited use of copyrighted material without permission for purposes such as criticism, commentary, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, or research. However, determining fair use is complex and fact-specific, requiring consideration of factors such as the purpose and character of the use, the nature of the copyrighted work, the amount used, and the effect on the market for the original work. Downloading a song for personal enjoyment would generally not be considered fair use.
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YouTube’s Terms of Service
Irrespective of copyright law, YouTube’s Terms of Service often prohibit downloading content without explicit authorization from the platform. These terms represent a contractual agreement between the user and YouTube. Violating these terms can result in account suspension or termination, even if the download does not constitute copyright infringement. The terms are subject to change and users are responsible for remaining informed of the current stipulations.
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Public Domain and Creative Commons Licenses
Content that is in the public domain, meaning the copyright has expired or been forfeited, is free for anyone to use. Similarly, content licensed under Creative Commons licenses may grant permission for certain types of uses, including downloading. It is essential to verify the copyright status or license terms of the specific content before downloading to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations. These licenses often require attribution to the original creator.
In summary, the legality of extracting audio from YouTube hinges on copyright considerations, fair use principles, and adherence to YouTube’s terms of service. Failure to account for these factors can result in legal repercussions and ethical concerns. Users must exercise diligence in determining the copyright status and permissible uses of content before downloading audio files.
2. Copyright Infringement
The unauthorized extraction of audio, specifically in the MP3 format, from videos hosted on YouTube frequently intersects with the legal domain of copyright infringement. This intersection warrants careful consideration, as the act of downloading copyrighted material without proper authorization can expose individuals to legal repercussions.
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Unauthorized Reproduction
The core principle of copyright law grants the copyright holder the exclusive right to reproduce their work. Extracting audio from a YouTube video, in essence, creates a reproduction of that portion of the copyrighted work. Without explicit permission from the copyright holder, this reproduction constitutes infringement. For instance, downloading a commercially released song from a YouTube upload constitutes an unauthorized reproduction of the musical composition and sound recording, potentially leading to legal action from the record label or artist.
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Distribution of Infringing Copies
Copyright infringement extends beyond mere reproduction to include distribution of infringing copies. Sharing the extracted MP3 file with others, either through file-sharing networks, email, or physical media, constitutes distribution. Each instance of unauthorized distribution can be considered a separate act of infringement, increasing the potential liability. An example would be uploading the downloaded MP3 to a file-sharing service, thereby making it available to a wider audience without the copyright holder’s consent.
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Circumvention of Technological Protection Measures
YouTube and content creators often employ technological protection measures (TPMs) designed to prevent unauthorized copying. Downloading MP3s from YouTube often involves circumventing these TPMs. Many countries have laws prohibiting the circumvention of TPMs, even if the underlying act of copying would otherwise be considered fair use. For example, utilizing software that bypasses YouTube’s stream encryption to download an MP3 could violate these circumvention laws, regardless of whether the content itself is copyrighted.
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Commercial Use and Derivative Works
The severity of copyright infringement often increases with commercial use. If the extracted MP3 is used for commercial purposes, such as in a promotional video or as part of a for-profit venture, the potential damages and legal consequences are significantly greater. Similarly, creating derivative works based on the extracted audio, without permission, also constitutes infringement. An example could be using a portion of a copyrighted song from YouTube in the background of a commercial advertisement without obtaining the necessary licenses.
The relationship between downloading MP3s from YouTube and copyright infringement is multifaceted. It underscores the importance of understanding copyright law, respecting the rights of content creators, and obtaining proper authorization before engaging in the extraction and use of copyrighted material. The unauthorized extraction and subsequent use of copyrighted audio expose individuals to the risk of legal action, emphasizing the need for caution and compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Consider the widespread practice of sampling in music; even short samples require licensing agreements to avoid infringement claims, highlighting the pervasive nature of copyright protection.
3. Terms of Service
The Terms of Service (ToS) of online platforms, particularly YouTube, establish the contractual agreement between the platform and its users. These terms dictate permissible and prohibited activities, and they hold significant relevance to the extraction of audio from videos.
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Prohibition of Unauthorized Downloads
Most platforms explicitly prohibit the downloading of content without prior authorization. This clause directly impacts the practice of acquiring MP3 files. While the existence of a video stream implies public accessibility, it does not equate to the right to download and repurpose the content. Downloading, even for personal use, may violate the ToS, potentially resulting in account suspension or legal action initiated by the platform, irrespective of copyright considerations.
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Restrictions on Circumvention of Technological Measures
YouTube employs technological measures to protect its content and prevent unauthorized access. The ToS frequently includes clauses that forbid users from circumventing these measures. Utilizing third-party software or online services to extract audio constitutes a violation of this provision. Even if the content is not protected by copyright or is licensed under a Creative Commons license, circumventing the platform’s security measures remains a breach of contract.
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Changes and Amendments to the Terms
Terms of Service are subject to change at the discretion of the platform. Users are responsible for staying informed about revisions. A previously permitted activity may become prohibited upon an update to the ToS. The platform typically provides notification of such changes, but failure to review and acknowledge them does not absolve users of their obligation to comply. Regularly reviewing the ToS is essential to avoid unintentional violations.
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Legal Recourse and Jurisdiction
The ToS specifies the legal jurisdiction and the mechanisms for resolving disputes. In cases of violation, the platform may pursue legal recourse against the user, potentially resulting in financial penalties or other forms of legal action. The specified jurisdiction may differ from the user’s location, adding complexity to the legal process. Understanding the dispute resolution process outlined in the ToS is crucial for users who engage in activities that may violate the agreement.
The stipulations within the Terms of Service act as a significant constraint on the practice of downloading MP3 files from YouTube. Regardless of copyright considerations, adherence to these terms is paramount. Failure to comply may result in penalties, emphasizing the importance of understanding and respecting the contractual agreement established between the user and the platform. Consider similar restrictions imposed by streaming services on offline playback, which often limit the number of devices or the duration of availability, further illustrating the control platforms exert over content consumption.
4. Converter Software
Converter software plays a central role in the process of extracting audio from video content available on platforms such as YouTube. These applications facilitate the conversion of video files into audio-only formats, most commonly MP3. Their function is critical in enabling users to isolate and acquire audio tracks for various purposes.
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Functionality and Operation
Converter software operates by decoding the video stream, isolating the audio component, and re-encoding it into the desired audio format. The user typically provides the URL of the YouTube video as input, and the software processes the video to produce an MP3 file. Various software options exist, ranging from web-based converters to standalone desktop applications. The efficiency and quality of the conversion process depend on the specific algorithms and codecs employed by the software.
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Variety of Options
A multitude of converter software options are available, each with varying features, capabilities, and potential drawbacks. Some are free to use but may contain advertisements or limitations on the file size or conversion speed. Others are subscription-based or require a one-time purchase and may offer advanced features such as batch conversion, higher audio quality options, and removal of advertisements. The choice of converter software should be based on individual needs and risk tolerance, considering factors such as security, reliability, and audio quality.
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Potential Risks and Security Considerations
The use of converter software carries inherent risks. Many online converters are hosted on websites with questionable security practices, potentially exposing users to malware, phishing scams, and unwanted software installations. Desktop applications, while potentially more secure, can still contain vulnerabilities. It is crucial to download software from reputable sources, scan downloaded files for viruses, and exercise caution when interacting with online converters. Employing a VPN can also mitigate certain risks by masking the user’s IP address.
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Impact on Audio Quality
The conversion process can affect the quality of the resulting MP3 file. Lossy compression, inherent in the MP3 format, results in some loss of audio fidelity compared to the original video stream. The degree of quality loss depends on the bitrate and encoding parameters used during the conversion. Higher bitrates generally result in better audio quality but also larger file sizes. Some converter software may offer options to adjust these parameters, allowing users to balance file size and audio quality according to their preferences.
In summary, converter software is an indispensable tool for extracting audio from YouTube videos. However, the selection and usage of these tools require careful consideration of functionality, security, and potential impact on audio quality. The risks associated with unreliable or malicious software underscore the importance of due diligence in choosing a converter and adopting safe browsing practices.
5. Audio Quality
Audio quality is a critical factor in the extraction of MP3 files from YouTube videos. The fidelity of the resulting audio track directly impacts the listening experience and the utility of the downloaded file. The process of converting video to audio inherently involves trade-offs that can affect the final sound quality.
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Source Audio Quality
The audio quality of the original YouTube video serves as the baseline for the extracted MP3. If the source audio is low-quality, due to poor recording techniques or low bitrates during the initial upload, the resulting MP3 will inevitably be of compromised quality, regardless of the conversion process. A video with a noisy or distorted audio track will yield a correspondingly flawed MP3. Therefore, identifying videos with high-quality audio at the source is the initial step in ensuring a satisfactory result.
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Bitrate Selection during Conversion
Bitrate, measured in kilobits per second (kbps), determines the amount of data used to represent the audio signal. Higher bitrates generally result in better audio quality but also larger file sizes. When converting a YouTube video to MP3, the user typically has the option to select the desired bitrate. A lower bitrate, such as 128 kbps, will result in a smaller file size but may introduce noticeable compression artifacts, such as a loss of clarity and detail. Higher bitrates, such as 256 kbps or 320 kbps, offer improved audio quality at the expense of increased file size. The optimal bitrate selection depends on the user’s listening preferences and storage capacity.
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Lossy Compression and Artifacts
The MP3 format employs lossy compression, meaning that some audio information is discarded during the encoding process to reduce file size. This compression can introduce audible artifacts, such as a “watery” or “metallic” sound, particularly in complex audio passages with a wide dynamic range. The severity of these artifacts depends on the bitrate, the encoding algorithm used by the converter software, and the sensitivity of the listener. While these artifacts may be subtle at higher bitrates, they can become more pronounced at lower bitrates, affecting the overall listening experience.
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Converter Software Quality and Codecs
The quality of the converter software itself plays a significant role in determining the final audio quality. Different converter software utilizes different audio codecs (encoding/decoding algorithms), which can vary in their efficiency and ability to preserve audio fidelity. Some converters may introduce additional processing or filtering that degrades the audio quality, while others may offer more sophisticated encoding options that minimize compression artifacts. Selecting reputable converter software from trusted sources is crucial for ensuring the best possible audio quality during the conversion process.
These factors collectively influence the audio quality of MP3 files extracted from YouTube videos. Users should consider the source audio quality, select an appropriate bitrate, understand the limitations of lossy compression, and choose reputable converter software to maximize the fidelity of the resulting audio files. The balance between file size and audio quality is a persistent consideration in this process, demanding careful evaluation of individual listening preferences and storage constraints.
6. Security Risks
The extraction of audio files from YouTube videos, while offering convenience, introduces potential security vulnerabilities that users must acknowledge. The reliance on third-party converter software and websites creates avenues for malicious actors to exploit vulnerabilities in user systems.
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Malware Infection
Many online MP3 converter websites and software applications serve as vectors for malware distribution. Users may unknowingly download and install malicious software alongside the intended converter, leading to system compromise, data theft, or ransomware attacks. A user attempting to download an MP3 from a dubious website could inadvertently install a keylogger, compromising sensitive information such as banking credentials. The prevalence of such threats necessitates extreme caution when selecting and utilizing converter tools.
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Phishing and Scam Attempts
Converter websites often employ deceptive advertising practices and redirect users to phishing sites designed to steal personal information. These websites may mimic legitimate login pages or request sensitive data under false pretenses. A user seeking to download an MP3 might be redirected to a fake login page for a popular streaming service, where their credentials are stolen. Vigilance and awareness of phishing tactics are essential to avoid falling victim to these scams.
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Unwanted Software Installation
Even seemingly legitimate converter programs may bundle unwanted software, such as browser extensions, adware, or potentially unwanted programs (PUPs), with the installation. These additions can alter browser settings, display intrusive advertisements, and degrade system performance. A user installing a converter program might find their default search engine replaced and their browser flooded with unwanted pop-up ads. Thoroughly reviewing installation options and exercising caution during the installation process are critical to prevent the installation of unwanted software.
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Data Privacy Violations
Some converter services may collect and sell user data, including browsing history, IP addresses, and downloaded file information, to third-party advertisers. This data can be used for targeted advertising, profiling, or even identity theft. A user regularly downloading MP3s through a particular service might unknowingly have their browsing habits tracked and sold to advertising networks. Reviewing the privacy policies of converter websites and software is essential to understand the data collection practices and potential risks to privacy.
The security risks associated with acquiring audio from YouTube are multifaceted, encompassing malware infections, phishing attempts, unwanted software installations, and data privacy violations. These threats highlight the importance of adopting secure browsing habits, utilizing reputable converter tools, and exercising caution when engaging with online services that facilitate MP3 extraction. The convenience of obtaining audio must be weighed against the potential security consequences.
7. Ethical Considerations
The practice of acquiring MP3 files from YouTube videos raises a spectrum of ethical considerations that extend beyond mere legality. These considerations encompass the respect for intellectual property rights, the support for content creators, and the impact on the digital media ecosystem.
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Creator Compensation and Sustainability
Content creators on YouTube often rely on advertising revenue and other monetization methods tied to video views to sustain their work. Downloading MP3s circumvents these revenue streams, potentially diminishing the creators’ ability to produce and share content. For instance, a musician who relies on YouTube royalties may find their income significantly reduced if users opt to download the audio without viewing the video. This undermines the economic foundation that supports creative endeavors and may disincentivize the creation of new content.
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Respect for Copyright and Intellectual Property
Copyright law grants creators exclusive rights over their work. Downloading copyrighted material without permission disregards these rights and treats intellectual property as freely available, which is unethical. Consider a filmmaker who uploads a soundtrack to YouTube; downloading the MP3 without purchasing the official soundtrack album disregards the filmmaker’s copyright and the potential revenue generated from legitimate sales. This disrespect for intellectual property can stifle creativity and innovation.
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Impact on the Music Industry and Artists
The widespread practice of downloading MP3s from YouTube has broader implications for the music industry and artists. It can cannibalize sales of legitimate music products and reduce the overall revenue available for artists and record labels. For example, if a popular song is widely available for free download on YouTube, consumers may be less inclined to purchase the song or album through official channels, impacting the artist’s earnings. This can have a cascading effect, reducing funding for new artists and potentially leading to a decline in the diversity and quality of musical output.
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Transparency and Informed Consent
Ethical considerations extend to the transparency of converter tools and the informed consent of users. Some converter services may not clearly disclose their data collection practices or potential security risks, leaving users unaware of the potential consequences of their actions. A converter service that secretly installs malware or collects user data without explicit consent violates ethical principles of transparency and fairness. Users should be fully informed about the potential risks and consequences associated with downloading MP3s before engaging in the practice.
These ethical dimensions underscore the need for a balanced approach to the acquisition of audio files from YouTube. While downloading MP3s may offer convenience, it is essential to consider the potential impact on creators, the respect for intellectual property rights, and the broader consequences for the digital media ecosystem. Exploring alternative options, such as supporting creators through official channels, purchasing music through legitimate platforms, and seeking out content licensed under Creative Commons, can offer a more ethical and sustainable approach to enjoying audio content online.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Audio Extraction from Online Video Platforms
The following section addresses common inquiries concerning the practice of extracting audio, specifically in the MP3 format, from video content hosted on platforms such as YouTube. The information provided aims to clarify prevalent misconceptions and offer insights into the legal, ethical, and technical aspects involved.
Question 1: Is acquiring audio files from online video platforms inherently illegal?
The legality is contingent upon various factors, including copyright ownership, the presence of explicit permission from the copyright holder, and adherence to the platform’s terms of service. Downloading copyrighted material without authorization constitutes copyright infringement. Consideration must also be given to the potential circumvention of technological protection measures implemented by the platform.
Question 2: Does personal use exempt an individual from copyright infringement?
Personal use does not automatically exempt an individual from copyright infringement. While some jurisdictions recognize a “fair use” doctrine, this doctrine is narrowly defined and subject to interpretation. Downloading copyrighted material for personal enjoyment is generally not considered fair use, and may still constitute infringement.
Question 3: Are services that facilitate audio extraction from online video platforms legal?
The legality of such services depends on their adherence to copyright law and their compliance with the platform’s terms of service. Many services operate in a legally ambiguous gray area, relying on interpretations of fair use or technological loopholes. The use of these services does not absolve the end-user of responsibility for adhering to copyright laws.
Question 4: What potential security risks are associated with using online converter tools?
Online converter tools may expose users to malware infections, phishing scams, and unwanted software installations. Many websites hosting these tools lack adequate security measures, making them vulnerable to exploitation by malicious actors. It is imperative to exercise caution and select reputable converter tools from trusted sources.
Question 5: Does the quality of the extracted audio depend on the quality of the original video?
The audio quality of the original video serves as the upper limit for the quality of the extracted audio. If the source audio is of poor quality, the extracted audio will inevitably be compromised, regardless of the conversion process. Higher bitrate settings during conversion can mitigate some quality loss, but cannot compensate for deficiencies in the original audio.
Question 6: What ethical considerations should be taken into account before acquiring audio from online video platforms?
Ethical considerations include respecting the intellectual property rights of content creators, supporting sustainable business models for online content, and minimizing the negative impact on the digital media ecosystem. Consideration should be given to alternative methods of accessing content, such as purchasing music through legitimate platforms or supporting creators through donations or subscriptions.
The practice of extracting audio from online video platforms presents a complex interplay of legal, ethical, and technical factors. Individuals should carefully weigh these considerations before engaging in such activities to ensure compliance with applicable laws and respect for the rights of content creators.
The subsequent section will provide an overview of alternative methods for accessing audio content online in a manner that aligns with legal and ethical principles.
Guidance for Navigating Audio Extraction from Online Video Platforms
The following guidance addresses the practice of acquiring audio, specifically in the MP3 format, from video content hosted on platforms such as YouTube. The information provided aims to offer practical advice while upholding ethical and legal considerations.
Tip 1: Assess Copyright Status. Before engaging in audio extraction, determine the copyright status of the source material. If the content is explicitly marked as copyrighted or lacks a Creative Commons license permitting such use, acquiring the MP3 file may constitute infringement. Exercise caution and err on the side of respecting intellectual property rights.
Tip 2: Review Platform Terms of Service. Prior to utilizing any extraction method, carefully examine the terms of service of the hosting platform. Many platforms explicitly prohibit downloading content without authorization. Violating these terms can lead to account suspension or legal repercussions, independent of copyright considerations.
Tip 3: Utilize Reputable Converter Tools. Should the decision be made to proceed with audio extraction, select converter tools from reputable sources. Prioritize applications or websites with established security protocols and positive user reviews. Avoid tools that exhibit suspicious behavior, such as aggressive advertising or bundled software installations.
Tip 4: Scan Downloaded Files for Malware. Post-conversion, thoroughly scan the extracted MP3 file with a reliable antivirus program. This step helps mitigate the risk of inadvertently installing malware or other malicious software that may have been bundled with the converter tool.
Tip 5: Consider Alternative Audio Sources. Explore legitimate alternatives for acquiring the desired audio content. Consider purchasing the music from authorized online retailers or subscribing to streaming services that offer offline listening options. These methods provide financial support to creators and ensure compliance with copyright regulations.
Tip 6: Acknowledge Limitations of ‘Fair Use’. Recognize that the ‘fair use’ doctrine is narrowly defined and subject to interpretation. Downloading entire songs or audio tracks for personal enjoyment generally does not fall within the scope of fair use. Exercise caution when relying on this defense and seek legal counsel if uncertain.
Tip 7: Respect Licensing Agreements. If the source material is licensed under a Creative Commons license, carefully review the terms of the license before extracting and utilizing the audio. Adhere to any attribution requirements or restrictions specified by the license.
Adhering to these guidelines can mitigate the legal, ethical, and security risks associated with audio extraction from online video platforms. Prioritizing respect for intellectual property rights and employing responsible digital practices contributes to a more sustainable and ethical online ecosystem.
The subsequent section will present concluding remarks, summarizing the key themes and providing a final perspective on the topic of audio extraction.
Conclusion
The examination of extracting audio, specifically in the MP3 format, from video content hosted on platforms such as YouTube reveals a complex interplay of legal, ethical, security, and technical considerations. This exploration has underscored the importance of understanding copyright law, respecting platform terms of service, mitigating security risks associated with converter tools, and appreciating the ethical implications for content creators. The practice of acquiring audio from online video sources necessitates a nuanced approach, one that prioritizes adherence to legal frameworks and ethical principles.
Ultimately, responsible engagement within the digital ecosystem requires informed decision-making and a commitment to supporting sustainable models for content creation. As technology evolves and new avenues for accessing media emerge, a continued focus on ethical and legal considerations remains paramount in navigating the complexities of online audio acquisition. Individuals should strive to balance their desire for convenient access with the need to uphold the rights and livelihoods of content creators and the integrity of the digital landscape.
