Playing melodies on a single string by exciting harmonics using the Lorentz force.

The article focuses on demonstrating how a single metal guitar string of fixed length can produce a musical scale by selectively exciting its harmonics using a non-contact method based on the Lorentz force. By applying an alternating current (AC) at specific harmonic frequencies to the string placed near a permanent magnet, the string vibrates at those frequencies, enabling the production of a one-octave scale without changing string length or tension. The study compares various tuning systems, including just intonation, Pythagorean tuning, and 12-tone equal temperament, and uses harmonics from the 8th to 16th to approximate musical notes in the key of C5. Experimental results characterize the resonance frequencies, quality factors, amplitude responses, and response times for each harmonic, demonstrating the feasibility of playing melodies and chords on this monochord setup. The authors suggest this approach as an educational tool to illustrate the physics of musical sound, resonance, and harmonic relationships.