FAA and FCC chase down a shortwave radio broadcaster whose 17th harmonic is found to interfere with airplane radio at 132.26 MHz
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mOOfs2iVeso
SEE ALSO https://soundquality.org/?s=sine+square+15+khz
The concept of the “mystery of the 17th harmonic” refers to a phenomenon in music theory and acoustics that has intrigued musicians, mathematicians, and theorists for centuries. The 17th harmonic is one of the overtones or partials that can be produced by a vibrating string or column of air, and it plays a significant role in shaping the timbre or quality of musical sounds.
Here are a few aspects and interpretations of the mystery of the 17th harmonic:
1. **Mathematical Complexity**: The 17th harmonic is a higher-order overtone that occurs at a frequency 17 times the fundamental frequency of a vibrating object. Its mathematical properties and relationship to the fundamental pitch are complex, and its presence can contribute to the richness and complexity of musical tones.
2. **Psychoacoustic Effects**: Some theorists and musicians have speculated about the psychoacoustic effects of the 17th harmonic and its impact on listeners’ perception of sound. While the human ear may not consciously perceive the 17th harmonic as a distinct pitch, it can contribute to the overall timbre or color of a musical tone, influencing its perceived brightness, warmth, or richness.
3. **Historical and Cultural Significance**: The 17th harmonic has captured the imagination of composers and theorists throughout history, leading to various interpretations and symbolic associations. In some traditions, certain musical scales or tuning systems incorporate the 17th harmonic as a fundamental element, while in others, it may be treated with curiosity or reverence as a mysterious and elusive aspect of sound.
4. **Modern Research and Exploration**: In contemporary music theory and acoustics, researchers continue to investigate the properties and significance of the 17th harmonic, employing advanced mathematical and computational techniques to analyze its role in musical sounds. Understanding the behavior of harmonics, including the 17th harmonic, can inform the design of musical instruments, digital audio processing algorithms, and sound synthesis techniques.
Overall, the mystery of the 17th harmonic highlights the intricate relationship between mathematics, physics, perception, and culture in the study of music and acoustics. While its exact significance may remain elusive, its presence underscores the complexity and richness of the auditory experience and the exploration of sound in both artistic and scientific contexts.