Chapter 15, Problem 92A

To determine

The factors to be considered while constructing a musical instrument such as a violin or a French horn, besides the length of the string or tube.

The difference between a quality instrument and a cheaper one and how they are tested for tone quality.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Each vibrating body has a waveform of its own.

Musical instruments have complex waveform.

While constructing a violin, besides the length of the string, the material used to construct it must be considered as it affects the quality of the instrument. Also, the way it is shaped and joined affects the quality of the violin. Similarly, for constructing a French horn, the material used and its shape is to be considered as they affect the sound quality.

The difference between a quality instrument and a cheaper one is the sound quality which is affected by the material of the instrument.

The tone quality of an instrument depends on its waveform, which varies with the number of harmonics, their frequency and their relative amplitude.

The harmonics of the instrument can be used to test its tone quality.

Conclusion:

While constructing a musical instrument, besides its length, the material used should be considered as it affects the quality of the instrument.

The difference between a quality instrument and a cheaper one is the sound quality, which is affected by the material of the instrument.

The harmonics of the instrument can be used to test its tone quality.