What determines the rhythmic value of beamed notes?

The rhythmic value of beamed notes is determined by the number of notes included within the beam, as well as the time signature. Each beam connects notes that have the same rhythmic value, and the overall rhythmic value of the beamed group of notes is equivalent to the sum of the individual note values. For example, a group of four notes beamed together in 4/4 time would have a combined rhythmic value of one whole note.