Crossovers

Crossovers refer to multiple meanings across fields. Broadly, the term describes the merging or exchange of elements from different domains, genres, or systems, and is used in science, engineering, entertainment, and transportation.

In audio engineering, a crossover network divides an input signal into separate frequency bands sent to different loudspeaker drivers, such as tweeters and woofers. Passive crossovers use inductors, capacitors, and resistors; active crossovers split the signal before amplification using dedicated electronics. The circuits are designed to minimize overlap, control phase, and match driver impedances. Higher-order crossovers provide steeper frequency cutoffs at the expense of greater complexity and potential phase shifts.

In biology, a genetic crossover refers to the exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during meiosis. Crossovers increase genetic diversity in offspring and are a central mechanism of recombination, genetic mapping, and evolution.

In fiction and media, crossovers occur when characters, settings, or storylines from distinct works appear within a single narrative or across media franchises. They can be planned collaborations, special episodes, or event-driven narratives, and are used to explore interactions between universes or to attract new audiences.

In automobiles, a crossover, or crossover SUV, is a vehicle built on a unibody car platform that blends car-based handling with SUV styling and higher ride height, offering improved interior space while typically sacrificing some off-road capability compared with traditional body-on-frame SUVs.