What Is the Fundamental Frequency of a Modified Stretched Wire?

In summary, the frequency of the stretched wire in its first normal mode is 369Hz. If the wire were one third as long, its diameter were tripled, and its tension were increased two-fold, the fundamental frequency would be 260.922Hz. This is calculated using the formula f = 1/2L * squareroot(Ft/u) and taking into account the changes in length, diameter, and tension. The diameter is tripled, which means the radius is also increased by a factor of 1.5. The remaining calculations with the square root are correct.
  • #1
dantechiesa

Homework Statement


A stretched wire vibrates in its first normal mode at a frequency of 369Hz. What would be the fundamental frequency if the wire were one third as long, its diameter were tripled, and its tension were increased two-fold?

Homework Equations



f = 1/2L * squareroot(Ft/u)

The Attempt at a Solution


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Can someone explain what I've done wrong?

369 = 1/2L * Sroot(Ft/u)

L is 1/3, so 1/2L becomes 3/(2L)

The Ft is doubled, but the u needs to be broken down further.
m/l = u
l is 1/3
m = dv
d stays the same, so v is the relevant one.
V = pi r2h
r is tripled, so the V increases by a factor of 9. However, since the h (aka l) also changes by a third. Total change of V is x3.

so, 3*m / (l/3)
All together,
Sroot ( 2Ft / (9u)

However, 369 * (3/2) * Sqroot (2/9) is wrong. ( = 260.922402258)

Thanks.
 
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  • #2
You had a factor of 1/2L. Now you have a factor of 3/2L. So you don't multiply by 3/2.
 
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  • #3
Diameter is tripled

In the formula for V , r is the radius , so since diameter is tripled, radius goes up by x1.5.
 
  • #4
Radius and diameter are in proportion. If one is tripled, so is the other.
 
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  • #5
mjc123 said:
You had a factor of 1/2L. Now you have a factor of 3/2L. So you don't multiply by 3/2.
Oh would you multiply by 3 only? Since the 1/2 was already apart of the equation?

ALso, does the remaining work with the square root seem right?

Thanks.
 
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  • #6
Yes
 
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  • #7
mjc123 said:
Yes
Thanks a lot!
 

FAQ: What Is the Fundamental Frequency of a Modified Stretched Wire?

What is fundamental frequency and why is it important?

Fundamental frequency, also known as the first harmonic, is the lowest frequency produced by a vibrating object or sound wave. It is important because it determines the perceived pitch of a sound.

How is fundamental frequency measured?

Fundamental frequency is typically measured in Hertz (Hz), which represents the number of cycles per second of a sound wave.

What factors affect the fundamental frequency of a sound?

The size, shape, and tension of an object or material can affect its fundamental frequency. For example, a thicker guitar string will produce a lower fundamental frequency than a thinner string.

What is the relationship between fundamental frequency and harmonics?

Harmonics are whole number multiples of the fundamental frequency. For example, if the fundamental frequency is 100 Hz, the first harmonic will be 200 Hz, the second harmonic will be 300 Hz, and so on. The presence of harmonics gives a sound its unique timbre or quality.

How does fundamental frequency relate to musical intervals?

The fundamental frequency of a sound can determine the musical interval between two notes. For example, if the fundamental frequency of one note is twice that of another note, they will be an octave apart on the musical scale.

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