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clairez93
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Homework Statement
The "A" on a trumpet and a clarinet have the same pitch, but the two are clearly distinguishable. Which property is most important in enabling one to distinguish between these two instruments?
A) intensity
B) fundamental frequency
C) displacement amplitude
D) pressure amplitude
E) harmonic content
Homework Equations
n/a
The Attempt at a Solution
I defined the terms.
Intensity: the rate at which sound waves transmit energy per unit area
Fundamental frequency:the first standing wave for which the harmonic number n is 1
Displacement amplitude: the maximum displacement a wave travels
Pressure amplitude: the places of maximum pressure for a sound wave
Harmonic content: the number and relative intensity of the upper harmonics present in the sound
I am not sure how these terms relate to the sound or pitch of an "A" note, however.
[My answer key provides the answer as E) harmonic content]