Tension and fundamental frequency

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the new fundamental frequency of a violin string when its tension is increased by 15%. The original frequency is 294Hz, and through the application of the wave speed formula and tension adjustments, the new frequency is determined to be approximately 315.28Hz. The key equations used include f = v/2L and v = sqrt(T/(m/L)). The final solution confirms the correctness of the second attempt at solving the problem.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave mechanics and fundamental frequency
  • Familiarity with tension and mass per unit length (m/L) in strings
  • Knowledge of the relationship between tension, wave speed, and frequency
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of wave speed in strings using tension and mass per unit length
  • Explore the effects of tension changes on the frequency of vibrating strings
  • Learn about the harmonic series and its application in string instruments
  • Investigate the mathematical modeling of string vibrations in musical acoustics
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, music educators, string instrument makers, and anyone interested in the acoustics of musical instruments will benefit from this discussion.

raindrops
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Homework Statement



A particular violin string plays at a fundamental frequency of 294Hz. If the tension is increased 15%, what will be the new fundamental frequency?

Homework Equations



f=v/2L
v=sqrt(T/(m/L))

The Attempt at a Solution



294 = sqrt(T/(m/L))/2L so T=(294*2L)^2/(m/L)

T2 = T1*1.15

T2 = 1.15 * (((588L)^2)/(m/L))

I could go on and plug this into f2 = sqrt(T2/(m/L)) but it's a lot of typing and it didn't get me anywhere.

I'm not sure if I'm maybe making this problem more difficult than it has to be but I'm at a loss as to what to do. Any help would be greatly appreciated.



***second attempt at this problem

u=m/L

v = sqrt(1.15T/u)

sqrt(T/u)=v/sqrt(1.15)

f= v/(sqrt(1.15)*2L)

294*sqrt(1.15) = 315.28Hz

No idea if this is right, but it's all I could come up with.
 
Last edited:
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Hi raindrops, welcome to PF.
Your second attempt is correct.
 

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