Megahertz (MHz)
The megahertz, symbol MHz, equals one million hertz and is commonly used to describe radio frequencies, microprocessor clock speeds, and wireless communications. As technology advanced from kilohertz applications, the 20th century saw the introduction of megahertz, providing a practical scale for high-frequency signals. It is especially relevant in radio, television, mobile networks, and computing. The unit ensures clarity and precision when dealing with millions of cycles per second, making it indispensable for engineers, technicians, and hobbyists alike.
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.