Harmonic Frequencies

Harmonic frequencies are specific sound waves that occur at multiples of a fundamental pitch. When an object vibrates—like a guitar string or vocal cords—it produces a base sound called the fundamental frequency. Along with this, there are additional vibrations at higher frequencies that are whole-number multiples of the fundamental, known as harmonics. These harmonics enrich the sound, giving instruments and voices their unique tonal qualities. For example, in a musical note, the fundamental determines the pitch, while the harmonics influence the timbre or character of the sound.