Tuning fork

Tuning Fork

A Tuning fork is an acoustic resonator in the form of a two-pronged fork with the prongs (tines) formed from a U-shaped bar of elastic metal (usually steel). It resonates at a specific constant pitch when set vibrating by striking it against a surface or with an object, and emits a pure musical tone once the high overtones fade out.

History

The tuning fork was invented in 1711 by British musician John Shore, Sergeant Trumpeter to the court.

Physical properties

A tuning fork is a simple example of a resonator, which oscillates at its resonant frequency. The main reason for using the fork shape is that, unlike many other types of resonators, it produces a very pure tone, with most of the vibrational energy at the fundamental frequency, and little at the overtones (harmonics).

Uses

Tuning forks have traditionally been used to tune musical instruments, but they have also found their way into medicine, where they are used in audiometry, neurology, and as a method of healing in alternative medicine.

See also

• Resonance
• Audiometry
• Neurology
• Alternative medicine

References

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External links

• Official website

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