Physics Communication Questions

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion addresses two fundamental questions in wave physics related to strings. The formula for harmonics in a string is defined as nf, where n represents the harmonic number (0, 1, 2, ...), with the first harmonic being the fundamental frequency. The velocity of a wave in a string is determined by the tension (T) and mass per unit length (m/L), expressed mathematically as v = √(T/(m/L)). In the context of guitars, variations in string width affect the mass per unit length, allowing different notes to be produced.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave mechanics
  • Familiarity with harmonic frequencies
  • Knowledge of tension and mass per unit length concepts
  • Basic principles of string instruments
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the relationship between tension and frequency in string instruments
  • Explore the concept of standing waves in different mediums
  • Learn about the physical properties of guitar strings and their impact on sound
  • Investigate the mathematical derivation of wave velocity in various contexts
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, music educators, string instrument players, and anyone interested in the principles of wave mechanics and sound production in strings.

aek
Messages
82
Reaction score
0
11. What is the formula that relates the fundamental frequency of a wave in a string to harmonic?

12. What two factors determine the velocity of a wave in a string? Which one of these quantities is varied between the strings of a guitar to give different notes?


If anyone has a answer to these questions, would you soo kindly help. Thanks
 
Physics news on Phys.org
11.

The question is asking at what frequencies standing waves in a string occur.
So if you know your fundamental frequency, let's say it's f, then harmonics occur at nf where n = 0,1,2... (is an integer).
So, 1st harmonic is just your fundamental frequency f.
2nd harmonic (also called first overtone) is 2f.
3rd harmonic (second overtone) is 3f.
So on..

12.

velocity of a wave in a string is determined by the tension in the string and mass per unit length of the string.

[tex] v = \sqrt{ \frac{T}{m/L} }[/tex]
where T is the tension, m and L are the mass and length of the string.

In a guitar, I believe each string has a different width, so mass / unit length is varied.

You could have probably found answers to these questions in you textbook.
 
Thanks

Thanks a lot, i really appreciate it
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 23 ·
Replies
23
Views
4K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
5K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
7K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
4K