What is the relationship between frequency and period?

The relationship between frequency and period is defined as inversely proportional. This means that as the frequency of a wave increases, the period decreases, and vice versa.

Frequency is the number of cycles that occur in a unit of time, typically measured in hertz (Hz), while the period is the duration of one complete cycle of that wave, measured in seconds. The mathematical relationship can be expressed with the formula:

Frequency (f) = 1 / Period (T)

From this equation, one can see that if the frequency increases (meaning more cycles are occurring per unit of time), the period—the time it takes for one cycle to occur—must decrease. Conversely, if the frequency decreases, the period must increase. This inverse relationship is fundamental in understanding wave phenomena, including sound and ultrasound, and is crucial for those studying sonography.

The other choices suggest alternative relationships, such as direct proportionality, independence, or linear relationships, which do not accurately describe how frequency and period interact with each other.