Final answer:
Frequency in radio communications refers to the number of complete wave cycles per second (hertz) of the carrier wave, vital for tuning into specific radio stations. It represents the rate at which the carrier wave oscillates to carry audio or other information.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term "frequency" as it applies to radio communications is most accurately defined as the number of oscillations per second of the carrier wave. This definition corresponds to frequency being the number of complete wave cycles passing a given point within one second. These cycles are commonly measured in hertz (Hz), which is equivalent to "cycles per second" or "waves per second". With frequency modulation (FM), which is a method used in radio communications, a primary carrier wave with a basic frequency (e.g., 105.1 MHz) is modulated in frequency by an audio signal to carry information.
It's important to understand that frequency is fundamentally a physical property that describes how often a periodic event like a wave occurs within a specific time frame, with the standard unit for reporting frequency being s⁻¹ or hertz (Hz). This is relevant when tuning into radio stations, each characterized by their distinct frequencies measured in kilohertz (kHz) or megahertz (MHz), depending on the station's assignment within the radio spectrum.
the correct option is C The number of oscillations per second of the carrier wave