What is a rhythm instrument?

A rhythm instrument is a musical instrument that primarily produces sound that marks time or creates a pulse, rather than producing pitches. Rhythm instruments are often used to accompany other instruments or vocal music, or to provide a rhythmic background for dance, exercise, or other activities. Some common examples of rhythm instruments include drums, cymbals, claves, maracas, triangles, and tambourines. These instruments are typically played by striking, shaking, or scraping them to create different rhythmic patterns and sounds.