What is the mathematical relationship between the frequencies of musical notes that we perceive identical, but at different octaves?

Humans have a logarithmic perception of the majority of uncountable and some countable things. A0, which is percieved as the basic note, has a frequency of 27.50 Hz. A1=55 Hz, and A2=110 Hz. You might notice that each time we increase the octave, we multiply the previous frequency by 2. Hence, the formula for the note A would be:      An=27.52Hz If we check this, then A7=27.5128=3520 Hz, which, if you check any sources, you will find is correct.

CP

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

A ball is dropped from a 5.0m high window. Assuming air resistance is negligible, calculate the time taken for it to hit the ground.


An infared wave has a wavelength of 1.5 x10^–6 m. The speed of this wave is 2.2 × 10^8 m/s. Calculate the frequency of the wave. Give your answer in standard form and to 2 significant figures.


A fluorescent light uses a lining to emit visible light, explain why this is necessary and how it works.


Explain how the photoelectric effect gives evidence for the photon theory of light.