What does the term "clock frequency" refer to in digital circuits?

Clock frequency refers to the speed at which a clock signal oscillates in digital circuits. It is typically measured in Hertz (Hz) and directly influences how quickly a digital circuit can perform operations. The clock signal serves as a timing reference, controlling the sequence of operations and the synchronization of data processes within the circuit. A higher clock frequency means that the circuit can process more cycles per second, leading to faster performance and the ability to execute more instructions or data transfers in a given timeframe. Therefore, recognizing the significance of clock frequency is crucial for understanding the operation and performance of digital circuits, as it plays a key role in defining the overall speed and efficiency of the system.