Physics Behind Playing a Saxophone

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Playing a saxophone involves the production of standing waves within the instrument's air column, which correspond to different musical notes or frequencies. The reed plays a crucial role by vibrating to create oscillations that excite these standing waves. Understanding the physics of woodwind instruments includes concepts of wave behavior in tubes of air. The interaction between the reed and the air column is essential for sound production. Overall, the physics of playing a saxophone combines acoustics and wave dynamics.
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I am curious, what are the physics involved in playing a sax? Is each note (frequency) played a standing wave in the pipe?

I know there is something dealing with waves in tubes of air, maybe even the reed.
What I'm looking for here is just some general info of the real physics behind playing a woodwind instrument.

Thanks!
 
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Yes you produce standing waves in the tube. The reed helps you to excite the oscillations.
 
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Hi chapabird! Welcome to PF! :smile:

(i'm confused :redface: … are you a chap or a bird? :confused:)

Totally brilliant Australian website …

http://www.phys.unsw.edu.au/jw/saxacoustics.html" :wink:​
 
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