BasicB-005-001-010

How can a frequency in megahertz be stated in gigahertz?

B
Answer
Transmitters, receivers, and measurements
Type
A
Multiply by 1 000
B
Divide by 1 000
C
Divide by 1 000 000
D
Multiply by 1 000 000

Answer Notes

The prefix 'mega' (M) represents one million (10^6), while the prefix 'giga' (G) represents one billion (10^9). Because a gigahertz is 1,000 times larger than a megahertz, you need 1,000 megahertz to make a single gigahertz. Whenever you convert a measurement from a smaller unit (MHz) to a larger unit (GHz), the numerical value must become smaller. Therefore, you must divide the frequency in megahertz by 1,000 to find the equivalent in gigahertz. Multiplying by 1,000 would incorrectly step down to the next smaller prefix (kilohertz), rather than stepping up to gigahertz.
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