Frequency

Definition

Frequency is the number of occurrences of a repeating event per unit of time. In music, it determines the pitch of a sound based on how many sound waves occur in one second, measured in Hertz (Hz).

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Frequency is measured in Hertz (Hz), where 1 Hz equals one cycle per second.
2. Higher frequencies correspond to higher pitches, while lower frequencies correspond to lower pitches.
3. The human ear can typically hear frequencies between 20 Hz and 20,000 Hz.
4. In musical terms, the A above middle C has a frequency of 440 Hz.
5. Frequency is inversely proportional to wavelength; as frequency increases, wavelength decreases.

Review Questions

• What unit is frequency measured in?
• How does frequency relate to the pitch of a sound?
• What is the typical range of frequencies that humans can hear?

Related terms

Amplitude:

Amplitude refers to the height of a wave and determines the volume or loudness of a sound.

Wavelength: Wavelength is the distance between two consecutive peaks or troughs in a wave and is inversely related to frequency.

Pitch:

Pitch is the perceived frequency of a sound; higher frequencies are heard as higher pitches and lower frequencies as lower pitches.