What does a hertz measure?

A hertz is a unit of measurement that quantifies frequency, which refers to the number of cycles or repetitions of a periodic event occurring in one second. It is commonly used in various fields, including physics and engineering, to describe phenomena such as sound waves, electromagnetic waves, and alternating current in electrical circuits. For instance, when we talk about audio frequencies, a sound that vibrates at 440 hertz means that it completes 440 cycles per second.

Understanding that hertz specifically measures frequency is essential, as it provides insight into how often an event occurs over a given time period, distinguishing it from other measurements related to electrical properties or physical phenomena. This clarity in what hertz represents helps in analyzing and understanding different systems, whether it's in the realm of sound, light, or electrical systems.