A sequence of frequencies that are whole-number multiples of a fundamental frequency. The series begins with the fundamental (1st harmonic) and progresses to higher harmonics: the 2nd harmonic is twice the frequency of the fundamental, the 3rd harmonic is three times, and so on.
For example, if the fundamental frequency is 100 Hz, the harmonic series includes:
• 1st harmonic: 100 Hz
• 2nd harmonic: 200 Hz
• 3rd harmonic: 300 Hz
• 4th harmonic: 400 Hz
The harmonic series is the foundation of musical timbre, as the relative amplitudes and phases of these frequencies determine the character of a sound. Instruments and synthesis techniques rely on the harmonic series to create rich, resonant tones or to emulate the behavior of acoustic sounds.
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