Tuning
The basic formula for the frequencies
of the notes of the
equal tempered scale is given by
fn = f0 * (a)n
where
f0 = the frequency of one fixed note which must
be defined. A common choice is setting the A above middle C (A4)
at f0 = 440 Hz.
n = the number of half steps away from the fixed note you are. If
you are at a higher note, n is positive. If you are on a lower note,
n is negative.
fn = the frequency of the note n half steps away.
a = (2)1/12 = the twelth root of 2 = the number which
when multiplied by itself 12 times equals 2 = 1.059463094359...
The wavelength of the sound for the notes is found from
Wn = c/fn
where W is the wavelength and c is the speed of sound.
The speed of sound depends on temperature, but is approximately
345 m/s at "room temperature."
Examples using A4 = 440 Hz:
C5 = the C an octave above middle C. This is 3 half steps
above A4 and so the frequency is
f3 = 440 * (1.059463..)3 = 523.3 Hz
If your calculator does not have the ability to raise to powers, then
use the fact that
(1.059463..)3 = (1.059463..)*(1.059463..)*(1.059463..)
That is, you multiply it by itself 3 times.
Middle C is 9 half steps below A4 and the frequency is:
f -9 = 440 * (1.059463..)-9 = 261.6 Hz
If you don't have powers on your calculator, remember that the
negative sign on the power means you divide instead of multiply. For
this example, you divide by (1.059463..) 9 times.
This calculation is easily accomplished using a
Spread Sheet (excel spreadsheet).
If your browswer is blocking xls downloads, use
this version and replace the ".txt"
extension with ".xls" before using.
Questions/Comments to: suits@mtu.edu
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