Each frame in an animation is created individually and then combined to form a fluid motion. The number of frames per second (FPS) determines the smoothness and speed of the animation. Typically, the higher the number of frames, the smoother the animation will appear.
In traditional animation, frames were created by drawing or painting each frame on individual pieces of paper or transparent sheets called cels. These would then be sequentially captured using a camera to create the animated footage.
With the advancement of digital technology, computer-generated animation allows for more complex and detailed animations, where frames can be created using software and various animation techniques such as 2D, 3D, stop motion, and more.
The length and complexity of an animation can vary, ranging from a few frames for simple animations, such as a bouncing ball, to thousands of frames for feature-length animated films or complex visual effects shots in movies and video games.