How to Calculate Wave Velocity in a Tuned Violin String

In summary, a violin with strings of 31.6 cm each was placed in front of a speaker and its frequency was varied between 500 and 1500 Hz. It was found that one string only vibrated at 880 Hz and 1320 Hz, suggesting that it was an overtone or the fundamental tone. Using the equation v=fλ, it was determined that the velocity of the wave in this string was approximately 278.08 m/s. However, the key states 275 m/s, which could be due to rounding off.
  • #1
Daltohn
30
0

Homework Statement


A tuned violin, with strings of 31.6 cm each, is placed in front of a speaker. When varying the speakers frequency between 500 and 1500 Hz, it was discovered that a certain string only vibrated at 880 Hz and 1320 Hz. Determine the velocity of the wave in this string.


Homework Equations


v=fλ


The Attempt at a Solution


The frequencies has to be overtones or the fundamental tone f_0. That gives nf_0=880 Hz and (n+1)f_0=1320 Hz, so n=2 and f_0=440 Hz. When f=f_0 the string has two nodes so v=f_0*2l (l=0.316m). v=278.08. But the key says 275 m/s, did I do something wrong or have they rounded it weirdly? Thanks
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
I don't see anything wrong in your solution. It most probably is a case of rounding off weirdly.
 
Last edited:
  • #3
Adithyan said:
I don't see anything wrong in your solution. It most probably is a case of rounding off weirdly.
Yes, has to be so. Thanks :)
 

Related to How to Calculate Wave Velocity in a Tuned Violin String

1. What is sound?

Sound is a form of energy that is produced by vibrations in matter. These vibrations create waves that travel through a medium, such as air or water. When these waves reach our ears, they are interpreted as sound.

2. How is sound measured?

Sound is measured in units called decibels (dB). This scale ranges from 0 dB, which is the threshold of human hearing, to 120 dB, which is the threshold of pain. The higher the decibel level, the louder the sound.

3. What is the difference between pitch and volume?

Pitch is a measure of how high or low a sound is, and is determined by the frequency of the sound wave. Volume, on the other hand, is a measure of how loud or soft a sound is, and is determined by the amplitude of the sound wave.

4. How do sound waves travel?

Sound waves travel through a medium, such as air or water, by causing particles in the medium to vibrate. These vibrations create a chain reaction, causing neighboring particles to vibrate and carry the sound wave forward.

5. How does sound change in different mediums?

The speed of sound can change in different mediums, as the density and temperature of the medium can affect how quickly sound waves can travel. The pitch and volume of a sound can also be affected by the medium it travels through, as different mediums absorb and reflect sound waves differently.

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