Fundamental

Definition

The fundamental frequency is the lowest frequency at which a system naturally vibrates. It is also called the first harmonic and determines the basic pitch of the sound produced.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The fundamental frequency is inversely proportional to the length of an air column.
2. In a closed-end air column, only odd harmonics are present.
3. For an open-end air column, both even and odd harmonics can be present.
4. The fundamental frequency can be calculated using $$f_1 = \frac{v}{2L}$$ for an open tube, where $v$ is the speed of sound and $L$ is the length of the tube.
5. In musical instruments like flutes and organ pipes, tuning involves adjusting the effective length to change the fundamental frequency.

Review Questions

• What is meant by 'fundamental frequency' in terms of standing waves?
• How does changing the length of an air column affect its fundamental frequency?
• Explain why only odd harmonics are present in a closed-end air column.

Related terms

Harmonics: Frequencies that are integer multiples of the fundamental frequency.

Resonance: The phenomenon where a system oscillates with greater amplitude at specific frequencies.

Standing Wave: A wave that remains stationary within a medium, characterized by nodes and antinodes.