Kilohertz

One kilohertz (abbreviated "kHz") is equal to 1,000 hertz. Like hertz, kilohertz is used to measure frequency, or cycles per second. Since one hertz is one cycle per second, one kilohertz is equal to 1,000 cycles per second.

Kilohertz is commonly used to measure the frequencies of sound waves, since the audible spectrum of sound frequencies is between 20 Hz and 20 kHz. For example, middle C (C4) on a piano keyboard produces a frequency of 261.63 Hz. The C key two octaves above middle C (C6) produces a frequency of just over 1 kHz (1,046.5 Hz). Since the sound frequency doubles with each octave, the C7 key produces an audible frequency of just over 2 kHz (2,093 Hz). As you might guess, frequencies above 2 kHz sound very high-pitched.

Sound waves and low frequency radio waves are often measured in kilohertz. Other waves, such as high frequency radio waves, visible light waves, and ultraviolet rays, have much higher frequencies. Therefore, most waves in the electromagnetic spectrum are measured in megahertz, gigahertz, or even greater units of measurements.

Abbreviation: kHz

Updated March 3, 2011 by Per C.

quizTest Your Knowledge

What verb describes turning on a computer?

A
Lift
0%
B
Throw
0%
C
Boot
0%
D
Kick
0%
Correct! Incorrect!     View the Boot definition.
More Quizzes →

The Tech Terms Computer Dictionary

The definition of Kilohertz on this page is an original definition written by the TechTerms.com team. If you would like to reference this page or cite this definition, please use the green citation links above.

The goal of TechTerms.com is to explain computer terminology in a way that is easy to understand. We strive for simplicity and accuracy with every definition we publish. If you have feedback about this definition or would like to suggest a new technical term, please contact us.

Sign up for the free TechTerms Newsletter

How often would you like to receive an email?

You can unsubscribe or change your frequency setting at any time using the links available in each email.

Questions? Please contact us.