What parameter defines the frequency of an AC signal?

The frequency of an alternating current (AC) signal is defined by Hertz (Hz), which measures how many cycles of the signal occur in one second. In AC signals, the frequency is a crucial parameter because it determines the rate at which the current changes direction and influences the behavior of the signal in both time and frequency domains.

For example, in most household AC power systems, a frequency of 60 Hz means that the current completes 60 cycles every second. This frequency affects not only the voltage and current characteristics but also the performance of electrical devices and circuits designed to operate efficiently at that specific frequency.

The other parameters mentioned, such as volts, amperes, and ohms, relate to different characteristics of electrical signals. Volts measure the potential difference, amperes measure the current flow, and ohms measure resistance, but none of these parameters define how often the signal oscillates, which is precisely what Hertz does.