What does frequency refer to in wave motion?

Frequency in wave motion specifically refers to the number of cycles or oscillations that occur within a given unit of time, typically measured in hertz (Hz), where one hertz corresponds to one cycle per second. This concept is crucial in understanding various wave phenomena, including sound waves, electromagnetic waves, and mechanical waves.

Higher frequency indicates more cycles occurring in a specific time frame, which can influence characteristics such as pitch in sound waves or color in light waves. Thus, when discussing wave motion, recognizing that frequency directly represents the cycle count over time is fundamental to grasping how waves behave and interact in different environments.