Calculating Tension of Steel Wire in Piano to Tune to Middle C

In summary, to calculate the tension of a steel wire in a piano, you can use the formula T = (4 * L * f^2 * m) / d^2, where T is the tension, L is the length of the string, f is the frequency of the desired note, m is the mass per unit length of the string, and d is the diameter of the string. The mass per unit length of a steel wire in a piano is typically around 0.00004 kg/m. The tension of a steel wire directly affects the pitch of a note on a piano, with higher tension producing a higher pitch sound. The ideal tension for a steel wire in a piano to tune to middle C is around 165
  • #1
angelgurl619
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Homework Statement


A steel wire in a piano has a length of 56.8 cm and a mass of 5.0 g. To what
tension must this wire be stretched in order that the fundamental vibration
correspond to the note of middle C (f = 261.6 Hz)?


Homework Equations


u*(f2L)^2 = F




The Attempt at a Solution


(5g)*(261.6Hz*2*.568m)^2= F
=441572.63?

I'm not sure if that's the right equation or if I substituted my values correctly.
 
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  • #2


First thing to do is check your units.
 

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

To calculate the tension of a steel wire in a piano, you can use the formula T = (4 * L * f^2 * m) / d^2, where T is the tension, L is the length of the string, f is the frequency of the desired note, m is the mass per unit length of the string, and d is the diameter of the string.

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, but it is typically around 0.00004 kg/m.

3. How does the tension of a steel wire affect the pitch of a note on a piano?

The tension of a steel wire directly affects the pitch of a note on a piano. As the tension increases, the pitch of the note will also increase. This is because the higher tension causes the string to vibrate at a higher frequency, producing a higher pitch sound.

4. What is the ideal tension for a steel wire in a piano to tune to middle C?

The ideal tension for a steel wire in a piano to tune to middle C is around 165 pounds. This tension will produce a frequency of approximately 261.6 Hz, which is the standard frequency for middle C.

5. How do you adjust the tension of a steel wire in a piano to tune it to middle C?

To adjust the tension of a steel wire in a piano, you can either tighten or loosen the tuning pin at the end of the string. Tightening the pin will increase the tension, while loosening it will decrease the tension. Use a piano tuning tool to turn the pin in small increments until the desired tension and pitch are achieved for middle C.

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