MusicianCV · TRFrequency: cycles per second
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Properties of sound
Frequency counts repeated cycles each second and is measured in hertz. For comparable periodic sounds, increasing it generally raises perceived pitch. A spectrum can contain several strong components, however; the tallest peak need not identify the musical fundamental.
When reading an analysis, look at the pattern of components as well as one peak. Confusing a harmonic with the fundamental can produce an octave error. Frequency is a physical measurement; pitch is a perceptual judgement made from the sound.
Example
The ratio between 200 Hz and 400 Hz is 1:2: an octave relationship.
Frequency: cycles per second220 Hz → 440 Hz
Try it
What frequency is one octave above 150 Hz?
Answer
300 Hz: the frequency doubles.Related topics
Fundamental and harmonics · Octaves and note names · Reading small pitch differences in centsReferences
Frequency and Pitch of Sound
Subject-expert review pending.