Harmonics on a String Calculator
〰 Oscillations & waves. Use the Harmonics on a string formula to find frequency, harmonic number n, wave speed, string length: pick the value you want, type the others, and the answer updates as you go.
Pick the ○ next to the value you want to find, fill in the others, and it solves as you type.
What each letter means
| Quantity | Unit |
|---|---|
| Frequency | Hz |
| Harmonic number n | no unit |
| Wave speed | m/s |
| String length | m |
Worked example
Find the frequency when Harmonic number n = 2, Wave speed = 100 m/s, String length = 0.5 m.
Using fn = (n v)/2L: Frequency = 200 Hz.
Frequently asked questions
What is the formula for Harmonics on a string?
fn = (n v)/2L.
What do the letters stand for, and what units are used?
Frequency in Hz, Harmonic number n, Wave speed in m/s, String length in m.
How do you calculate frequency?
Put the values into fn = (n v)/2L. For example, with Harmonic number n = 2, Wave speed = 100 m/s, String length = 0.5 m, frequency = 200 Hz.
Can I solve for a different value?
Yes. In the calculator above, pick the circle next to any value (frequency, harmonic number n, wave speed, string length) and fill in the others: it rearranges the formula for you.
