Confused about string instruments and standing waves

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the frequencies of the first four harmonics for a banjo, emphasizing the importance of understanding the physics behind string instruments. The fundamental frequency is denoted as fn = nf1, which is applicable for string instruments with fixed ends. Participants highlight the necessity of visualizing sine waves and the relationship between nodes and antinodes in harmonics. The discussion encourages sketching sine waves to identify patterns in harmonic frequencies.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of fundamental frequency in string instruments
  • Knowledge of nodes and antinodes in wave physics
  • Ability to sketch sine waves and identify harmonic patterns
  • Familiarity with the concept of harmonics in musical acoustics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the physics of standing waves in string instruments
  • Learn about the mathematical relationships between harmonics and fundamental frequencies
  • Explore the impact of string tension and length on harmonic frequencies
  • Study the differences between open and closed-end wave systems
USEFUL FOR

Musicians, physics students, and anyone involved in the design or construction of string instruments, particularly those interested in the acoustics and harmonic properties of instruments like the banjo.

bt1740
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So I made a banjo for my project and now I need to do the calculations.
Well since its a string instrument I have to find the frequencies of the first four harmonics, I already have the fundamental frequency.
Is it fine to use:
fn = nf1

Not sure because I thought that was for open end air columns?
 
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Welcome to PF;
Do not go by equations you find in a book - go by the physics.
You know that the fundamental and all harmonics must form sine waves - you should be able to sketch a sine wave.

Your banjo has strings - is the string attached at both ends or just one?
The attached ends of the string must remain still - so the amplitude there is zero: they are nodes.
You get an antinode (max amplitude) between every two nodes.
Each harmonic up adds a node.

So sketch out the possible sine wave for 2 nodes, then for three nodes, and so on until you see a pattern.
 

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