What is primarily used to determine the pitch of a sound?

The pitch of a sound is primarily determined by its frequency. Frequency refers to the number of vibrations or cycles that the sound wave completes in one second, measured in hertz (Hz). Higher frequencies correspond to higher pitches, while lower frequencies correspond to lower pitches. This is a fundamental concept in acoustics and auditory perception, as the human ear perceives variations in sound frequency as differences in pitch.

While wavelengths and sound pressure play roles in sound characteristics, they do not directly determine pitch in the way that frequency does. Wavelength is related to the speed of sound and frequency, as it is inversely proportional; however, the human perception of pitch is more closely tied to frequency. Sound pressure relates to the loudness or intensity of the sound rather than its pitch, making frequency the key factor in identifying the pitch of a sound.