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ASVAB · Signals, Frequency, and Radio

What does frequency measure, and in what unit is it expressed?

Reviewed by Jordan Morley, Editorial Lead at 247SimpleTests. Written by the 247SimpleTests Editorial Team from the official source material cited on every question.

Correct answer

The number of cycles per second, in hertz (Hz)

  1. A The number of cycles per second, in hertz (Hz)
  2. B The amount of charge, in coulombs
  3. C The strength of a signal, in volts
  4. D The resistance of a wire, in ohms

Why this is the answer

Frequency measures how many cycles of a wave occur per second, and it is expressed in hertz (Hz). One hertz equals one cycle per second; a kilohertz (kHz) is a thousand cycles per second, and a megahertz (MHz) is a million. Frequency is important for AC power (60 Hz in North America) and for radio, where different stations broadcast at different frequencies. Higher frequency means more cycles per second and shorter wavelengths. Distinguishing frequency (Hz) from voltage (volts), resistance (ohms), and charge (coulombs) is common on the Electronics subtest.
Source: ASVAB Electronics Information — Frequency

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About this topic: Signals, Frequency, and Radio

Signals, frequency and radio questions cover wavelength and frequency, AM versus FM, antennas and the basics of how a signal is modulated and received. The maths is limited to the relationship between frequency, wavelength and the speed of light. This is one of 6 Electronics Information questions on signals, frequency, and radio, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

New to this exam? Our ASVAB exam guide explains the format, scoring, and how to prepare.

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