Unlocking the Beauty of Piano Beat Frequencies

What happens when three adjacent piano keys (F, F-sharp, and G) are struck simultaneously?

A. Melodic harmony
B. Beat frequencies
C. Dissonant chords
D. Perfect pitch

Final answer: Beat frequencies

Answer:

When three adjacent piano keys (F, F-sharp, and G) are struck simultaneously, beat frequencies are produced.

Have you ever wondered what creates that unique sound when you strike multiple piano keys at the same time? The answer lies in beat frequencies.

Beat frequencies occur when two waves of nearby frequencies interfere with each other. In the case of striking the piano keys F (349 Hz), F-sharp (370 Hz), and G (392 Hz) together, the beats you hear are the result of the frequency difference between each pair of notes.

Here's the breakdown:

• Beat between F and F-sharp: 370 Hz - 349 Hz = 21 Hz
• Beat between F-sharp and G: 392 Hz - 370 Hz = 22 Hz
• Beat between F and G: 392 Hz - 349 Hz = 43 Hz

These beat frequencies of 21 Hz, 22 Hz, and 43 Hz represent the discordant combination of the notes F, F-sharp, and G. It's fascinating to explore the science behind the beautiful yet complex sounds produced by piano keys.