In a stringed musical instrument, the sound frequency of a particular string can be increased by


A. lengthening the string.
B. tightening the string.
C. increasing the string's thickness.
D. loosening the string.

loosening the string

To determine the correct answer, let's understand the concept behind the sound produced by a stringed musical instrument.

When a string is plucked or bowed, it vibrates, creating sound waves. The frequency of these sound waves determines the pitch or note produced. Higher frequency results in a higher pitch, while lower frequency produces a lower pitch.

Now, let's go through each option and see how it affects the sound frequency of a string:

A. Lengthening the string: Increasing the length of a vibrating string decreases its frequency. This is because the longer the string, the slower the vibrations and the lower the frequency. Therefore, lengthening the string would lower the pitch, not increase it. So, option A is incorrect.

B. Tightening the string: Tightening the string increases its tension. As the tension increases, the string becomes stiffer, affecting its vibration. A stiffer string vibrates at a higher frequency, resulting in a higher pitch. Therefore, tightening the string is the correct answer. Option B is the correct answer.

C. Increasing the string's thickness: Modifying the thickness of the string does not directly affect the sound frequency. The thickness influences other characteristics, such as the tone and volume of the sound, but not the pitch. So, option C is incorrect.

D. Loosening the string: Just like option A, loosening the string decreases its tension, making it less taut. As a result, the frequency of vibrations decreases, leading to a lower pitch. Therefore, option D is incorrect.

In conclusion, the correct answer is B. Tightening the string.