How is frequency measured in electrical systems?

Frequency in electrical systems is measured in Hertz (Hz), which is defined as the number of cycles per second of any periodic phenomenon, including those in electrical signals. In the context of electricity, frequency specifically refers to how often an alternating current (AC) waveform completes a full cycle in one second.

For instance, in many countries, the standard frequency of electrical power is either 50 Hz or 60 Hz, meaning the AC waveform completes 50 or 60 cycles every second. This measurement is crucial because it impacts the operation of electrical devices and ensures compatibility across different systems. Higher or lower frequencies can affect the performance and efficiency of electrical equipment, so understanding frequency and being able to measure it in Hertz is fundamental in electrical engineering and grid operations.