What unit is used to measure frequency, equivalent to one cycle per second?

Study for the NCEA Level 3 Waves Test. Prepare with interactive flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question includes hints and detailed explanations. Equip yourself for success!

Frequency is defined as the number of cycles of a repetitive event occurring per second. The unit that is used to quantify this measurement is the hertz (Hz). One hertz is equivalent to one cycle per second, which means that if a wave completes one full cycle in one second, it has a frequency of 1 Hz.

Understanding frequency is crucial in the study of waves, as it affects characteristics like pitch in sound waves and color in light waves. The concept of cycles per second serves as a fundamental bridge connecting various forms of wave phenomena in physics.

The other units mentioned are related to different physical quantities: the meter measures length, the joule measures energy, and the newton measures force. Each of these units plays an essential role in their respective domains but does not relate to the measurement of frequency. This distinction highlights the specific role of hertz in the context of wave phenomena.

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