What unit is defined as one cycle per second?

The unit defined as one cycle per second is Hertz. This term is used to measure frequency, which is the number of occurrences of a repeating event per unit time. In the context of electrical engineering and physics, Hertz is commonly applied to alternating current (AC) systems, sound waves, and other periodic phenomena. For instance, in electrical grids, a standard frequency is often 60 Hertz in North America, meaning the current completes 60 cycles every second.

Understanding this measurement is crucial for analyzing power systems and ensuring that equipment operates efficiently at its designated frequency. The term itself originated in honor of Heinrich Hertz, a physicist known for his contributions to the study of electromagnetic waves and oscillations. The clear and straightforward definition of Hertz as cycles per second makes it an essential concept in both theoretical and applied sciences.