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Record surface, light micrograph
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Record surface, light micrograph
Normarski differential interference contrast (DIC) light micrograph of the surface of a vinyl record, showing the grooves. The nature of the groove varies with the intensity of the music: the straighter the groove the quieter the music, the more wavy the groove the louder the music. The stylus travels through the groove & picks up the music modulation from the sloping sides; it is transmitted to the cartridge where a piezoelectric crystal or an electromagnet converts the vibration into an electrical signal. The grooves shown here are from the 1974 Elton John record " Lucy in the sky with diamonds". Magnification: x100
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6354869
© PASIEKA/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Audio Contrast Disc Groove Grooves Interference Items Music Plastic Record Sound Surface Track Tracks Vinyl
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the intricate surface of a vinyl record under a Normarski differential interference contrast (DIC) light microscope. The image reveals the mesmerizing grooves that adorn the record, each telling a unique story through its varying nature. As we delve into the world of music, we discover an intriguing correlation between the intensity of sound and the shape of these grooves. In this snapshot, taken at 100 times magnification, we witness how different musical intensities are represented by distinct groove patterns. The straighter and more orderly grooves indicate quieter melodies, while wavy and undulating ones signify louder compositions. It is within these meticulously carved channels that magic happens. As a stylus glides along these grooves during playback, it picks up every modulation etched onto their sloping sides. This delicate dance between stylus and groove transmits vibrations to a cartridge where they are transformed into electrical signals by either piezoelectric crystals or electromagnets. The specific grooves showcased here belong to Elton John's iconic 1974 record "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds". They serve as tangible evidence of technological advancements in audio recording from yesteryears. This photograph not only celebrates our passion for music but also highlights how technology has enabled us to capture and preserve timeless melodies on plastic discs known as vinyl records. (Photo credit: Alfred Pasieka/Science Photo Library)
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