Factors That Determine the Pitch of a String
Most recent answer: 10/22/2007
Q:
Why do different strings on instruments make high and low pitched sounds?
- C. George (age 14)
San Angelo, TX
- C. George (age 14)
San Angelo, TX
A:
There are three parameters that effect the pitch or frequency f, that a string makes:
the tension T, the length L, and the mass per unit length of the string, lambda. There is a formula that gives the frequency: f = sqrt(T/lambda) / (2*pi*L). So when you tighten the string or shorten the length, the frequency goes up. The fatter the string, i.e. bigger lambda, the smaller the frequency.
LeeH
the tension T, the length L, and the mass per unit length of the string, lambda. There is a formula that gives the frequency: f = sqrt(T/lambda) / (2*pi*L). So when you tighten the string or shorten the length, the frequency goes up. The fatter the string, i.e. bigger lambda, the smaller the frequency.
LeeH
(published on 10/22/2007)