Difference between revisions of "Harmonics"
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| − | Harmonics are vibrations at frequencies that are multiples of the fundamental. They are characterized as even-order and odd-order harmonics. For instance, the "second-order harmonic" is the fundamental [[frequency]] multiplied by two, and is an even-order harmonic. Each even-order harmonic is one octave or x octaves higher than the fundamental; they are therefore musically equivalent to the fundamental frequency. Odd-order harmonics create a series of notes that are musically related to the fundamental [[frequency]]—unparallel but resonant with the fundamental, they inform musical scales and give rise to chords. Non-integer harmonics are also called "overtones" or "partials". Overtones and partials give rise to the timbre ''(tone quality)'' of a particular instrument. | + | Harmonics are vibrations at frequencies that are multiples of the fundamental. They are characterized as even-order and odd-order harmonics. For instance, the "second-order harmonic" is the fundamental [[frequency]] multiplied by two, and is an even-order harmonic. Each even-order harmonic is one octave or x octaves higher than the fundamental; they are therefore musically equivalent to the fundamental frequency. Odd-order harmonics create a series of notes that are musically related to the fundamental [[frequency]]—unparallel but resonant with the fundamental, they inform musical scales and give rise to chords. Non-integer harmonics are also called "overtones" or "partials". Overtones and partials give rise to the timbre ''(tone quality)'' of a particular instrument. ''Bells'' are a common example of instruments with clearly perceptible harmonic overtones. |
'''Example: wavelengths of vibrating strings or overtones are proportional to 1, 1/2, 1/3, 1/4, etc in a common Harmonic Series. ''' <br> | '''Example: wavelengths of vibrating strings or overtones are proportional to 1, 1/2, 1/3, 1/4, etc in a common Harmonic Series. ''' <br> | ||
Revision as of 17:55, 18 January 2006
Harmonics are vibrations at frequencies that are multiples of the fundamental. They are characterized as even-order and odd-order harmonics. For instance, the "second-order harmonic" is the fundamental frequency multiplied by two, and is an even-order harmonic. Each even-order harmonic is one octave or x octaves higher than the fundamental; they are therefore musically equivalent to the fundamental frequency. Odd-order harmonics create a series of notes that are musically related to the fundamental frequency—unparallel but resonant with the fundamental, they inform musical scales and give rise to chords. Non-integer harmonics are also called "overtones" or "partials". Overtones and partials give rise to the timbre (tone quality) of a particular instrument. Bells are a common example of instruments with clearly perceptible harmonic overtones.
Example: wavelengths of vibrating strings or overtones are proportional to 1, 1/2, 1/3, 1/4, etc in a common Harmonic Series.
