Musical Instruments and overtones

[BanjooftheSun]

Homework Statement

Why do different instruments produce different relative amplitudes and number of overtones?

Homework Equations

N/A

The Attempt at a Solution

I know that formants affect the relative amplitude of some of the harmonics, but besides that, I do not know. Any guidance or suggested source would be appreciated.

I am having trouble understanding why the harmonic content of different instruments differs, which is why I asked this question.

Thanks

 

[kudoushinichi88]

You must remember that for strings and pipes only certain frequencies will survive... Different relative amplitudes because of interference of the harmonics..

 

[BanjooftheSun]

Ok, thank you.

I am only dealing with stringed instruments at the moment. I know that depending where the string is set vibrating different harmonics do not arise. Also, I think I understand that the harmonics interact to to form a composite wave based off of the harmonics that are present and how they interact.

What is giving me difficulty is how the body of the instrument, such as a guitar vs. a piano, affects which harmonics that are amplified.

Thanks very much