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Harmonics

Transverse stationary waves formed on stringed musical instruments can produce musical notes. Every string has a fundamental frequency of vibration f0 which is the minimum frequency of a stationary wave on a string. This depends on the mass, tension and length of the string. In addition to the fundamental note, different harmonics are produced with wavelengths related to the fundamental. If a string is stretched between two fixed points these points act as nodes. Stationary waves are also formed by longitudinal waves in woodwind instruments and pipe. Sound reflected off a surface can form stationary waves by superposition of the incident and reflected wave. Stationary waves can also be made inside tubes. Antinodes always form at an open end.

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