What if overtone is not achieved?

  • Thread starter Mr Checkmate
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In summary: This is why when you pluck a string at a certain harmonic, it will cause the string to vibrate at that frequency and the amplitude of the vibration will be proportional to the harmonic.
  • #1
Mr Checkmate
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Lets say there is a experiment to set a stationary wave on a stretched string. If the length of the string is not integer times larger than half of the lengthwave of the propogating wave set up. In other words there is no overtone, would there still be a stationary wave set up?
 
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  • #2
Mr Checkmate said:
Lets say there is a experiment to set a stationary wave on a stretched string. If the length of the string is not integer times larger than half of the lengthwave of the propogating wave set up. In other words there is no overtone, would there still be a stationary wave set up?

Every possible state of the string is given by a sum of the fundamental and the overtones (the harmonics) at various amplitudes (Fourier series). That means that a wave that cannot be expressed as a sum over the harmonics cannot exist on the string. A wave that was not a sum over the harmonics would not go to zero at each end of the string, and I believe you are referring to a string where its endpoints are held fixed. Once you hold the endpoints fixed, you are limited to only a sum over the standing-wave harmonics.
 
  • #3
this is the operating principle of stringed instruments. Strings can be of varying lengths and they will produce the base tone and harmonics as well depending on where they are plucked.
 
  • #4
i mean what if you force the string to oscillate at a frequency where harmonics is not reached, will a stationary wave be still set up?
 
  • #5
Mr Checkmate said:
i mean what if you force the string to oscillate at a frequency where harmonics is not reached, will a stationary wave be still set up?

You cannot "force the string to oscillate at a frequency where harmonics is not reached". You cannot do it, its impossible. As long as both ends are fixed, it cannot be done.
 
  • #6
i mean on one end there is a oscillator, meaning one end is not fixed.
 
  • #9
willem2 said:
If there is some damping, you will eventually get a standing wave with the frequency of the forced oscillations. The closer you are to a resonance frequency, the bigger the amplitude of the wave.

see"
http://physics.nyu.edu/~physlab/GenPhysII_PhysIII/Oscillations%20of%20a%20string%2001-26-2010.pdf

When the string is at or near resonance, energy will build up in the string. When it is away from resonance, the source of energy is mis-matched and little energy actually gets into the vibrations. In the end, the string will just go up and down by the amount of the drive mechanism and there will be no resonance. If the frequency of excitation coincides with one of the overtones then the source has a good match into the string and the standing wave energy will build up. At precisely the right frequency (ies) the matching is best and more energy gets into the standing wave, on either side of that frequency, the standing wave is not 'perfect' and less energy feeds into it.
 

1. What is overtone and why is it important?

Overtone refers to the higher frequency harmonics produced by a vibrating object, in addition to its fundamental frequency. It is important because it affects the quality, timbre, and richness of sound produced by musical instruments.

2. What are the potential reasons for not achieving overtone?

The most common reasons for not achieving overtone include improper technique, lack of skill or practice, physical limitations of the instrument, and poor instrument quality.

3. Can overtone be learned or developed?

Yes, overtone production can be learned and developed through proper technique, practice, and understanding of the instrument's capabilities. It may also require the use of specific techniques or tools, such as playing with a different embouchure or using a mute on a brass instrument.

4. How does overtone impact different types of instruments?

Overtone can have varying effects on different types of instruments. For example, in string instruments, overtone can add depth and richness to the sound, while in brass instruments, it can affect the pitch and timbre. In wind instruments, overtone can allow for the production of different notes and pitches.

5. Are there any potential drawbacks to achieving overtone?

In some cases, achieving overtone may require additional effort or adjustments in playing technique, which can be challenging for some musicians. Additionally, too much overtone can also result in a harsh or unpleasant sound, so it is important to find the right balance for each instrument and musical piece.

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