Harmonic Series of a Vibrating String

Theory

The allowed frequencies are integer multiples of the fundamental: $f_n=n{f}_1$. The $n$-th harmonic has $n$ antinodes and $n+1$ nodes. Musical instruments sound different because they mix these harmonics in different proportions (timbre).

What to observe

• Count the antinodes: 1, 2 and 3.
• Frequencies in the ratio 1 : 2 : 3.

Try this

• Change the tension of all three: the ratios stay the same.
• Set one string to traveling-wave mode.

Also available in: Série harmônica de uma corda vibrante (Português) · Serie armónica de una cuerda vibrante (Español)