Gigahertz (GHz)
The gigahertz, symbol GHz, equals one billion hertz and is primarily used in computing, radio astronomy, and high-speed communications. Following the widespread use of megahertz, advances in electronics in the late 20th century led to a need for units that could measure extremely high frequencies, resulting in the adoption of gigahertz. Today, it is commonly used to describe CPU clock speeds, satellite transmissions, and microwave signals. The gigahertz unit exemplifies the metric system’s scalability, allowing engineers and scientists to work with ultra-fast oscillations efficiently and accurately.
Revolutions per Second (rps)
Revolutions per second (rps) measures the number of complete rotations or cycles an object makes in one second. While the previous units describe frequency mainly for waves or signals, rps is widely used in mechanics, engineering, and rotational dynamics. Unlike hertz, which can describe any periodic phenomenon, revolutions per second (RPS) specifically applies to rotational motion. Its historical use dates back to early clockwork mechanisms, mills, and engines, evolving into modern applications such as motor speed measurements, centrifuges, and turbines. RPS provides a tangible understanding of rotational speed, making it valuable for both practical engineering tasks and educational purposes.