The visualization of the plucked string's dynamics confirms that its complex, periodic motion is an ongoing demonstration of the principle of superposition, where the overall displacement is the sum of many independent, oscillating harmonic modes (standing waves). The amplitudes of these modes, determined by the initial pluck position, directly dictate the string's final sound or timbre. Crucially, the demo highlights that the sharp features of the initial triangular shape (the "V" at the pluck point) are dependent on the inclusion of a large number of high-frequency harmonics, proving that the fidelity of a complex waveform is directly proportional to the number of Fourier terms used in its construction.
Visualize how the string vibrates over time as a superposition of standing waves-L.mp4
‣