What causes the vibration of one guitar string

In summary, the concept being discussed is the vibration of one object at the same frequency as another when they are mechanically connected or in a state of resonance. This can happen with guitar strings, piano strings, or even a car engine and body, as seen in the example shared by the speaker. The term "resonance" is often used to describe this phenomenon.
  • #1
spec138
4
0
My friend brought up this concept somehow and I know the answer, I just CANT remember what it's called. Sounds silly, I know. But anyways perhaps someone here can help me. What causes the vibration of one guitar string to be the same frequency of another one that has been plucked on that guitar?
Or another example, a piano string vibrating at the same frequency as a singer's voice. Any help? Thanks.
 
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  • #2
sympathetic vibration?
 
  • #3
If they are mechanically connected in some way it could simply be forced vibration. The vibration from one object induces the vibration in another.

What you are probably thinking of is resonance, which isn't necessarily happening. This would mean that the initial excited object had to be vibrating at the same frequency as one of the other object's natural frequencies.
 
  • #4
spec138 said:
What causes the vibration of one guitar string to be the same frequency of another one that has been plucked on that guitar?
Or another example, a piano string vibrating at the same frequency as a singer's voice.

FredGarvin: I see no reason to think they might be "mechanically connected".

Either "resonance" or "sympathetic vibration" are good here. The first is perhaps more general than the second.
 
  • #5
When I say mechanically connected, I mean that they could terminate at the same object, i.e. the strings in a guitar share the same bridge piece.
 
  • #6
THANK YOU! Resonance is the word I was looking for, you rock :P.
 
  • #7
Aha! A legitimate excuse to share one of my favourite stories. On a trip to Edmonton 20+ years ago, I got trapped in an underpass due to construction delays. There was a VW bug (original type) in the lane beside me. It was shaking like crazy, and it was obvious from the driver's expression that he didn't know what was causing it. After a few minutes, I kicked the throttle up a notch to check the alternator, and the bug stopped shaking. When I dropped back to my normal 750rpm idle, it started again. That was my 446ci Roadrunner pumping through a pair of Baby Thrush (straight-through) mufflers bolted directly to the headers with no tail pipes. The exhaust pulses at idle exactly matched the natural resonance frequency of the bug body. I spent the next 10 or 15 minutes playing with it, and the poor guy never did figure out what was going on. :devil:
 

FAQ: What causes the vibration of one guitar string

What causes a guitar string to vibrate?

The vibration of a guitar string is caused by plucking or strumming the string with either a pick or fingers. This creates a disturbance in the string, causing it to move back and forth.

Why do guitar strings vibrate at different frequencies?

The frequency of vibration of a guitar string depends on its length, tension, and mass. Different strings are tuned to specific frequencies, which creates the different notes and pitches we hear when playing a guitar.

Can the material of the guitar string affect its vibration?

Yes, the material of the guitar string can affect its vibration. Different materials, such as steel, nylon, or bronze, have different densities and elasticity, which can impact how the string vibrates and the quality of sound produced.

How does the vibration of a guitar string produce sound?

When a guitar string vibrates, it creates a pattern of air pressure waves that travel through the air, eventually reaching our ears. Our brain interprets these waves as sound, allowing us to hear the notes and chords being played.

What other factors can affect the vibration of a guitar string?

Apart from length, tension, and mass, other factors that can affect the vibration of a guitar string include temperature, humidity, and the shape and design of the guitar. These factors can impact the tension and elasticity of the string, ultimately affecting its vibration and sound.

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