What does the term "hertz" refer to in electrical systems?

The term "hertz" refers to the unit of frequency, defined as the number of cycles per second in an electrical system. When we discuss alternating current (AC) systems, the frequency at which the current changes direction is measured in hertz. For example, in North America, standard household current operates at 60 hertz, meaning the current alternates its direction 60 times every second.

This unit is critical in various applications, such as determining the frequency of electrical signals in communication systems or the operational speed of motors. Understanding this concept is essential for electricians and technicians, as it relates directly to the functionality and compatibility of electrical devices and systems. The other options do not represent the correct definition of hertz, focusing on different aspects of electrical measurements such as charge, resistance, and power output, which do not pertain to the concept of frequency in cycles per second.