Final answer:
The repetition rate of a complex tone is known as its frequency, which determines the pitch of the sound and is measured in Hertz (Hz).
Step-by-step explanation:
The repetition rate of a complex tone is called its frequency. Frequency is a fundamental concept in wave phenomena and it characterizes the number of cycles per second. When discussing tones, especially in the context of music or acoustics, the frequency is what determines the pitch of the sound. The unit for measuring frequency is Hertz (Hz), which is equivalent to one cycle per second.
In relation to a complex tone, which consists of multiple frequencies, the lowest frequency is known as the fundamental frequency, and the other frequencies, which are integer multiples of the fundamental frequency, are called harmonics or overtones. The intensity and frequency of these multiple frequencies can affect the overall quality of the sound, leading to rich and detailed auditory experiences.