Yoctohertz (yHz): SI Unit for the Smallest Practical Frequency Values
The yoctohertz (symbol: yHz) is an SI-derived unit of frequency equal to 10−24 hertz. It combines the SI prefix yocto-, meaning one septillionth, with the hertz, the SI derived unit of frequency. The yoctohertz provides a standardized way to express extremely small frequency values using the International System of Units (SI).
What Is a Yoctohertz?
A yoctohertz is a unit of frequency equal to 10−24 hertz. At this frequency, a single cycle would take an unimaginably long time, making the unit suitable only for theoretical and scientific applications involving extremely slow periodic processes.
The yoctohertz is one-thousandth of a zeptohertz and one thousand rontohertz. It simplifies the representation of exceptionally small frequency values that would otherwise require lengthy scientific notation.
History of the Yoctohertz
The yocto- prefix was officially adopted by the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM) in 1991 to represent a factor of 10−24. Combined with the hertz, it forms the yoctohertz, extending the International System of Units (SI) to describe extremely low frequencies.
Current Uses of the Yoctohertz
Yoctohertz is primarily used in theoretical physics, cosmology, advanced metrology, and scientific modeling involving extraordinarily slow oscillations or long-period phenomena. While it has no common practical engineering applications, it provides a standardized SI unit for expressing the smallest practical frequency values.
Yoctohertz Conversion
One yoctohertz is equal to:
- 1 × 10−24 hertz (Hz)
- 0.001 zeptohertz (zHz)
- 1,000 rontohertz (rHz)
- 1 × 10−9 femtohertz (fHz)
You can use ChangeUnit to convert yoctohertz to hertz, zeptohertz, rontohertz, and many other frequency units.