What phenomenon allows us to perceive the pitch of a sound?

The perception of pitch in sound is directly related to wave frequency, which is the number of cycles a sound wave completes in one second, measured in hertz (Hz). When the frequency of a sound wave increases, the pitch is perceived to be higher; conversely, a decrease in frequency leads to a lower pitch perception. Understanding pitch in this context is essential as it influences how we interpret and relate to different musical notes and tonal variations.

In contrast, sound intensity refers to the power per unit area carried by a sound wave, which affects loudness rather than pitch. Wave amplitude reflects the strength or height of sound waves, which also pertains mainly to loudness. Sound quality is related to the characteristics that distinguish different types of sound, such as timbre, but does not affect pitch perception directly. Thus, the correct relationship between frequency and pitch underscores why wave frequency is the phenomenon responsible for our ability to perceive pitch in sound.