Tuning Forks: Resonance & Beat Frequency

Two identical tuning forks and sounding boxes are placed next to one another. Striking one tuning fork will cause the other to resonate at the same frequency. When a weight is attached to one tuning fork, they are no longer identical. Thus, one will not cause the other to resonate. When two different tuning forks are struck at the same time, the interference of their pitches produces beats.

See other MIT physics demos

Tuning a Guitar using Beats

Constructive and Destructive Interference in a Guitar

Other videos by St-Mary's High School

Beats animation

2 waves (green and cyan) have slightly different frequency. The amplitude of the resultant wave (yellow) varies with time.

Other animations by Yves Pelletier

Beats demo (tuning forks)

Two tuning forks with slightly different frequencies produce beats.