SUBHARMONIC
An integer submultiple or fraction of a FUNDAMENTAL. Whereas the HARMONIC SERIES consists of integer multiples of the fundamental, the subharmonic series consists of pitches related to the fundamental by ratios: 1/2, 1/3, 1/4, 1/5, 1/6, ...
Subharmonics do not normally occur in natural sounds, although the subharmonic f/2 may be generated by the cone of a LOUDSPEAKER.
Compare: HARMONIC, INHARMONIC, OVERTONE, PARTIAL, SIDEBAND.
home