Explain the difference between serif and sans-serif fonts.

The main difference between serif and sans-serif fonts lies in their appearance and design characteristics:

1. **Serif Fonts**:
   - Serif fonts have small decorative strokes, known as serifs, at the ends of the letter strokes.
   - These serifs can take various forms, such as brackets, tails, or wedges, and are typically found at the tops and bottoms of letters or along the edges.
   - Serif fonts are often associated with traditional, formal, or classic typography styles.
   - They are commonly used in print media, such as books, newspapers, and magazines, where they contribute to readability and text flow.
   - Examples of serif fonts include Times New Roman, Georgia, Baskerville, and Garamond.

2. **Sans-serif Fonts**:
   - Sans-serif fonts, as the name suggests, do not have serifs or decorative strokes at the ends of letter strokes.
   - They have clean and simple letterforms with straight, clean lines and uniform stroke widths.
   - Sans-serif fonts are often perceived as modern, minimalist, and straightforward, making them popular choices for digital interfaces and contemporary designs.
   - They are commonly used in web design, user interfaces, signage, and advertising, where clarity and legibility are essential.
   - Examples of sans-serif fonts include Arial, Helvetica, Roboto, and Open Sans.

In summary, serif fonts feature decorative strokes at the ends of letter strokes, while sans-serif fonts have clean and simple letterforms without serifs. Each type of font has its own aesthetic and functional characteristics, making them suitable for different design contexts and applications.