Calculating Tension for Steel Wire in Piano

In summary, the question discusses how to determine the tension needed for a steel wire in a piano to produce the fundamental vibration of middle C. The equation f1=v/2L is used to calculate the velocity of the sound wave in the wire, which is then used in the equation v=\sqrt{\frac{T}{\mu}} to solve for the tension. The conversation also mentions the difference between the two velocities involved in the problem.
  • #1
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Homework Statement



Question: Standing Waves:

A steel wire in a piano has a length of 0.7000m and a mass of 4.300 x 10^-3 kg. To what tension must this wire be stretched in order that the fundamental vibration correspond to middle C (fc=261.6 Hz on the chromatic musical scale)?


Homework Equations



f1=v/wave1 = v/2L


The Attempt at a Solution



f1=v/2L
v=2Lf1= (.7000m)(261.6Hz)= 183.12 m/s
 
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  • #2
Can you differentiate between the two velocities?

(1) Velocity of sound wave in air which is produced by vibrating wire.

(2) Velocity of transverse wave in a stretched string.
 
  • #3
You know the speed required right? And the speed of sound in a string is given by [tex]v=\sqrt{\frac{T}{\mu}}[/tex] where [tex]\mu[/tex] is the mass per unit length.
 

1. How do you calculate the tension for a steel wire in a piano?

To calculate the tension for a steel wire in a piano, you will need to know the diameter of the wire, its length, and the frequency or pitch that it produces when plucked. You can then use the formula T = (4L^2F^2M)/(d^2), where T is the tension, L is the length, F is the frequency, M is the mass per unit length of the wire, and d is the diameter of the wire.

2. What is the mass per unit length of a steel wire in a piano?

The mass per unit length of a steel wire in a piano can vary depending on the manufacturer and type of wire. However, on average, it is around 0.00000785 kg/m. This value is needed to calculate the tension in the wire using the formula T = (4L^2F^2M)/(d^2).

3. How do you measure the frequency or pitch of a steel wire in a piano?

The frequency or pitch of a steel wire in a piano can be measured using a frequency meter or a tuning fork. You can also use a smartphone app that can detect and display the frequency of a sound. Alternatively, you can compare the pitch of the wire to a known pitch using a piano or other musical instrument.

4. What is the ideal tension for a steel wire in a piano?

The ideal tension for a steel wire in a piano is around 165-185 pounds. This tension range is based on the standard pitch of A4 at 440 Hz. However, some manufacturers may recommend slightly different tensions for their specific piano models.

5. How does the tension of a steel wire affect the sound and playability of a piano?

The tension of a steel wire in a piano is crucial for producing the desired sound and playability. If the tension is too low, the wire may produce a dull or flat sound, and the piano may feel sluggish to play. On the other hand, if the tension is too high, the wire may break, and the piano may feel too sensitive or difficult to play. It is essential to maintain the proper tension for the best sound and playability of a piano.

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