Relationship between harmonics and wave amplitude

In summary, the relationship between harmonics and wave amplitude in a resonant object depends on the system and its response to the input. As the harmonic scale increases, the amplitude is expected to decrease, but the exact amount is determined by the specific system.
  • #1
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What is the relationship between harmonics and wave amplitude in a resonant object?

Lets say we have an object which has a natural resonant frequency of 50hz. we connect that object to a signal generator set at 50hz and note the amplitude of the oscillations the object. Next we go up one harmonic to 100hz and again note the amplitude. If we were to continue going up the harmonic scale and plotted frequency against amplitude what would be the relationship? I know as you go up the scale the amplitude will go down but not sure by how much.
 
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  • #2
Thinking about it I think that it depends upon your system and the response of your system to the input. Do you have a specific example in mind?
 

Related to Relationship between harmonics and wave amplitude

1. What is the relationship between harmonics and wave amplitude?

The relationship between harmonics and wave amplitude can be described by the fact that harmonics are multiples of the fundamental frequency of a wave and their amplitudes decrease as the harmonic number increases.

2. How do harmonics affect the amplitude of a wave?

Harmonics affect the amplitude of a wave by causing it to have a series of peaks and valleys, known as interference, which can either amplify or cancel out the overall amplitude of the wave.

3. Why do higher harmonics have smaller amplitudes?

Higher harmonics have smaller amplitudes because they are multiples of the fundamental frequency and therefore have shorter wavelengths. This results in a decrease in amplitude due to the waves being spread out over a larger distance.

4. How does the amplitude of a wave change when harmonics are present?

The amplitude of a wave changes when harmonics are present by causing the overall amplitude to fluctuate due to constructive and destructive interference between the various harmonics.

5. Can harmonics and amplitude be manipulated to change the sound of a wave?

Yes, harmonics and amplitude can be manipulated to change the sound of a wave. By altering the amplitude of certain harmonics, the overall sound of a wave can be changed, resulting in different tones or pitches. This is commonly used in music and sound engineering.

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