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Hertz (Hz)

Definition

Hertz is the unit of measurement used to quantify frequency. It represents one cycle or oscillation per second.

Analogy

Imagine a drummer hitting a drum once every second. If you count the number of hits in one minute, that would be 60 hits. So, the drummer's frequency is 60 beats per minute, which can also be expressed as 60 Hz.

Related terms

Kilohertz (kHz): Kilohertz is equal to 1000 hertz. It is commonly used to measure frequencies in radio waves and audio signals.

Megahertz (MHz): Megahertz is equal to one million hertz. It is often used to measure frequencies in computer processors and radio transmissions.

Gigahertz (GHz): Gigahertz is equal to one billion hertz. It is frequently used to measure frequencies in computer processors and wireless communication systems.

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.