Which type of wave is characterized by a rise time that is significantly faster than the fall time?

A sawtooth wave is characterized by a rapid rise time followed by a slower fall time. This waveform is named for its shape, which resembles the teeth of a saw. In a sawtooth wave, the signal rises quickly to a peak value and then drops sharply back to the starting point, creating a long and gradual ramp up followed by a sharp drop. This particular characteristic is important in many applications, especially in synthesizing sounds in music production, where the distinct timbre of the sawtooth wave contrasts with other waveforms.

In comparison to other waveforms, the square wave has equal rise and fall times, creating a defined on-off pattern. The sine wave is smooth and continuous, with equal rise and fall times that create a natural oscillation. The triangle wave has linear rise and fall times that are equal, forming a symmetrical pattern. Thus, the sawtooth wave stands out due to its faster rise time and slower fall time, making it the correct answer.