How Can I Extend My Coursework on Standing Waves?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on extending coursework related to standing waves on strings, specifically using a vibration generator and a fixed-end setup with tension applied via a mass. The participant has collected data on harmonic frequencies for various wire types under different tensions and aims to validate the wave speed equation, v = √(T/μ). Suggestions for extending the experiment include exploring the suitability of different materials for stringed instruments and utilizing a microphone along with a math analysis program capable of performing Fast Fourier Transforms (FFT) for deeper analysis.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave mechanics, specifically standing waves
  • Familiarity with the equation v = √(T/μ) for wave speed
  • Basic knowledge of harmonic frequencies and their measurement
  • Experience with Fast Fourier Transforms (FFT) for signal analysis
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the impact of different materials on the harmonic frequencies of stringed instruments
  • Learn how to use a microphone for capturing sound waves in experiments
  • Explore advanced features of math analysis programs that perform Fast Fourier Transforms (FFT)
  • Investigate the relationship between tension, mass, and frequency in string vibrations
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on wave mechanics, as well as educators and researchers interested in the practical applications of standing waves in musical instruments.

Faloren
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Ideas to extend my coursework? (Standing Waves)

Homework Statement


I'm doing some coursework for school at the moment, and my chosen topic (because it was fun first time round) is standing waves on some kind of wire/string - ie vibration generator, wire and fixed end (ie pulley) with mass dangling off the end to produce tension.


Homework Equations



[tex]v = \sqrt{T/ \mu}[/tex]

Basically, at the moment I've got data for a few different types of wire, held at different tensions. The data is harmonic frequencies - ie watching the string until a standing wave is produced, noting the frequency as the signal generator shows, etc. The plan is to the use the data to verify the equation above (substituting v for [tex]f\lambda[/tex]).

This is all well and good, but could you possibly suggest a way of extending the experiment - say something to do with musical instruments "what material would be most suitable for such and such a stringed instrument's X string?" or whatever would work :)

Thanks!
 
Last edited:
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Do you have a good microphone and some sort of math analysis program that can do Fast Fourier Transforms?
 

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