A ___ rate  is the measurement of how much data can be passed across a phone line in a second.

The term you're looking for is "data transfer rate" or "bit rate."

A data transfer rate is a quantifiable measurement that indicates how much data can be transmitted from one point to another in a given unit of time, typically expressed in bits per second (bps). In telecommunications, this rate is crucial as it directly affects the quality of the service provided. Higher data transfer rates enable faster download and upload speeds, which can improve the performance of streaming services, online gaming, and other applications that require substantial bandwidth.

Understanding data transfer rates helps consumers make informed decisions about internet services and phone plans, as these rates can vary widely and significantly impact overall user experience.