How Do You Calculate Guitar String Length and Fret Placement Based on Frequency?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the length of a guitar string and the placement of frets based on a starting frequency of 82.4Hz, corresponding to the note E. Key equations include the relationship between frequency and wavelength (v = fλ), the wave speed in a string (v = √(T/u)), and the formula for string length (L = (1/2)*λ). The participant expresses uncertainty about how to proceed with the calculations, particularly regarding string tension and density, which are crucial for accurate fret placement.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave mechanics, specifically frequency and wavelength.
  • Knowledge of string tension and linear density in physics.
  • Familiarity with the formula for calculating string length based on frequency.
  • Basic guitar construction principles, including fret placement.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the calculation of guitar string tension and its effect on frequency.
  • Learn about the relationship between string length and fret placement using the 12√2 rule.
  • Explore the impact of different materials on string density and tension.
  • Investigate the physics of sound waves in string instruments for deeper insights.
USEFUL FOR

Musicians, guitar builders, physics students, and anyone interested in the acoustics of string instruments will benefit from this discussion.

Beasticly
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Homework Statement



Work out the length of a guitar string, and where the frets will be placed from nut to bridge given the starting frequency.

Frequency = 82.4Hz (E)


Homework Equations



12√2 between each fret

v = fλ

v = √(T/u)

u = m/L

L = (1/2)*λ

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm actually not too sure how to go about this question because I only have the frequency.

I guess I could approximate a tension and density by research but other than that I'm quite stumped.

Thanks in advance.
 
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how many frets in total do you want, it is 12?
 

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