Frequency
Frequency is the number of oscillations per second (Hz). It determines the pitch of the sound: higher frequency means higher pitch.
Try the simulator
Frequency
Frequency slider with time period readout; f ↔ T inverse.
Frequency and pitch
Frequency (f) is the number of complete cycles of the wave that pass a point per second, measured in hertz (Hz). For sound, higher frequency is perceived as higher pitch (e.g. a whistle vs a drum). The human ear typically hears roughly 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz.
✔ Key takeaway: Frequency f (Hz) = cycles per second; higher f → higher pitch.
Link to simulator: Use the frequency slider to see the f ↔ T relationship and optional beat effect.