Page:Young - Outlines of experiments and inquiries respecting sound and light (1800).djvu/52

 Fig. 51. The appearance of a chord, when put in motion by a bow applied nearly at one third of the length from its end.

Fig. 52. The method of tuning recommended for common use.

Fig. 53. A comparative view of different systems of temperament. The whole circumference represents an octave. The inner circle L is divided into 30103 parts, corresponding with the logarithmical parts of an octave. The next circle R shows the magnitude of the simplest musical and other ratios. Q is divided into twelve equal parts, representing the semitones of the equal temperament described by, differing but little from the system of , and warmly recommended by and other late writers. Y exhibits the system proposed in this paper as the most desirable; and P the practical method nearly approaching to it, which corresponds with the eleventh method in enumeration, except that, by beginning with C instead of B, the practical effect of the temperament is precisely inverted. K is the system of and ; which is derived from one perfect third, ten perfect and two equally imperfect fifths. M is the system of mean tones, the sistema participato of the old Italian writers, still frequently used in tuning organs, approved also by Dr. for common use. S shows the result of all the calculations in Dr. harmonics, the system proposed for his changeable harpsichord, but neither in that nor any other form capable of practical application.