Frequency and Period: Timing the Pulse of a Wave

Frequency is how many wave cycles pass a point in one second.
It’s measured in hertz (Hz), meaning “cycles per second.”
Period is the time it takes for one complete wave cycle to pass.
Frequency and period are inversely related: high frequency = short period, low frequency = long period.
A guitar string vibrating 440 times per second has a frequency of 440 Hz and a period of about 0.0023 seconds.
In sound, higher frequency means a higher pitch, and lower frequency means a deeper tone.
In light, frequency defines color—violet light has a higher frequency than red.
The regular timing of period makes waves predictable, like a steady heartbeat.
Engineers use frequency and period to design radios, clocks, and communication systems.
Together, frequency and period are the timekeepers of waves, setting their rhythm and pace.