What is the formula for frequency?

The formula for frequency is: frequency (f) = 1 / period (T).

In physics, frequency refers to the number of complete cycles or oscillations of a wave that occur in one second. It is measured in hertz (Hz), where one hertz is equivalent to one cycle per second. The period (T) is the time taken for one complete cycle of the wave, measured in seconds. The relationship between frequency and period is inversely proportional, meaning that as the period increases, the frequency decreases, and vice versa.

To calculate the frequency, you simply take the reciprocal of the period. For example, if the period of a wave is 0.5 seconds, the frequency would be 1 divided by 0.5, which equals 2 Hz. This means that two complete cycles of the wave occur every second.

Understanding frequency is crucial in various areas of physics, such as sound waves, electromagnetic waves, and alternating current (AC) electricity. For instance, the pitch of a sound is determined by its frequency: higher frequencies produce higher-pitched sounds, while lower frequencies produce lower-pitched sounds. Similarly, different colours of light correspond to different frequencies of electromagnetic waves.

In practical applications, knowing the frequency of a wave can help in designing and analysing systems like radios, televisions, and other communication devices. It also plays a significant role in medical technologies such as ultrasound imaging, where different frequencies are used to create images of the inside of the body.

By mastering the concept of frequency and its calculation, you can better understand and predict the behaviour of various physical systems and phenomena.