Fundamental frequency and higher harmonics

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion confirms the relationships between fundamental frequencies and harmonics for different wave configurations. For waves with antinode/antinode or node/node ends, the second harmonic is represented as f2 = 2f1 and the third harmonic as f3 = 3f1. In contrast, for waves with antinode/node or node/antinode ends, only odd harmonics exist, with the third harmonic as f3 = 3f1 and the fifth harmonic as f5 = 5f1, omitting even harmonics entirely. This distinction is crucial for understanding wave behavior in various physical contexts.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave mechanics
  • Knowledge of fundamental frequency concepts
  • Familiarity with harmonic series
  • Basic physics principles related to sound and vibrations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mathematical derivation of harmonic frequencies in wave theory
  • Explore the implications of odd and even harmonics in musical acoustics
  • Study the effects of boundary conditions on wave patterns
  • Learn about Fourier series and their applications in analyzing waveforms
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, acoustics engineers, musicians, and anyone interested in the principles of wave behavior and harmonic analysis.

johnj7
Messages
27
Reaction score
0
Could someone validate if this is correct?

for waves with antinode/antinode or node/node ends
if the fundamental frequency is f1
then f2 = 2f1, second harmonic
and f3 = 3f1, third harmonic

but for waves with antinode'/node or node/antinodes at the ends
then if fundamental frequency is f1
then f3 = 3f1 (third harmonic)
f5 = 5f1
because there are no second/4th/even harmonics

would this be correct?

much thanks!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Yes. It is correct.
 

Similar threads

Find two lowest frequencies standing wave
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
6K
Doppler effect and Beat frequency
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
Beat frequency and length question. (grade 11)
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
3K
Multiple-Choice Questions on the Behaviour of Waves and Light 😁
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
Violin frequencies and harmonics
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
Standing waves on a fixed string
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
5K
Harmonics, Notes, Beat frequency
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
What is the length of a vibrating metal wire at its third harmonic frequency?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Determining if a pipe is open or closed from given the resonant frequencies
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
18K
To which natural frequency does wavelength equal to L1
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
6K