What term refers to the number of complete wavelengths that pass a point in a given time?

The term that refers to the number of complete wavelengths that pass a point in a given time is frequency. In the context of waves, frequency is a fundamental property that determines how often these waves oscillate or cycle over a specific period, usually measured in Hertz (Hz). Each complete wavelength represents one cycle of the wave, and the higher the frequency, the more cycles occur in that timeframe. This concept is crucial in various fields, including physics, music, and psychology, as it influences not only the perception of sound but also the characteristics of electromagnetic waves.

Understanding frequency helps explain phenomena such as pitch in sound, where higher frequencies correspond to higher pitches, though they are not the same concept. The other terms, like amplitude, pitch, and timbre, relate to different aspects of sound. Amplitude measures the height of the waves, pitch deals with the perceived frequency of sound, and timbre refers to the quality or color of a sound.