Natural Frequency & Resonance

Natural frequency

frequency at which a system oscillates when disturbed (depends on tightness, length, weight, size, inertia)

Resonance

where natyral frequncy is exactly in tune w a force.

Standing waves

waves that are trapped in one spot rather than moving (occur in multiples)

Harmonics

fundamental & multiples of frequency (dependent on speed & wavelength)

Speed of waves

dependent on tension, thickness, & material composition

Wavelength

dependent on legnth & harmonic motion

Nodes

points where the string doesnt move/stays still

Antinodes

points of greatest amplitude (# of antinodes=harmonic)

nodes show equillibrium position

antinodes show crest or trough

Harmonic

pattern which corresponds to vibrations at particular frequency

Fundamental frequency of the first harmonic

lowest possible frequency a string could vibrate to form a standing wave pattern

Interference

when 2 or more waves come together

constructive interference

when 2 waves meet in the middle, combine, and form one large single pulse (add amplitudes)

Destructive interference

when two waves come together, combine, and cancel each other out (subtract amplitudes)