Question T5B02
From subelement T5 - T5B
Which is equal to 1,500,000 hertz?
Why is this correct?
1,500,000 hertz equals 1500 kHz because kilo means 1,000. To convert hertz to kilohertz, divide by 1,000: 1,500,000 ÷ 1,000 = 1500 kHz. Option B (1500 MHz) would be 1,500,000,000 hertz - too large by 1,000 times. Option C (15 GHz) would be 15,000,000,000 hertz. Option D (150 kHz) would be only 150,000 hertz.
Memory tip
When converting frequency units, always move the decimal point in groups of three. Each metric prefix represents a factor of 1,000 difference. This three-step pattern (Hz → kHz → MHz → GHz) appears consistently across all amateur radio frequency conversions.
Learn more
Frequency conversions are fundamental to amateur radio operation since you'll constantly work with different bands measured in kHz, MHz, and GHz. The 1500 kHz frequency in this example falls within the AM broadcast band (530-1700 kHz), just above the 160-meter amateur band (1800-2000 kHz). Understanding these relationships helps when selecting appropriate equipment and verifying your transceiver displays the correct frequency privileges for each amateur band.
Think about it
Why do you think amateur radio operators need to be comfortable converting between Hz, kHz, MHz, and GHz when modern transceivers display frequency digitally?