Pattern Gallery
Explore different cymatics patterns across modes and frequencies. Each pattern is generated in real-time.
Chladni - 220Hz
Classical plate pattern at A3
Chladni - 440Hz
Concert pitch A4
Chladni - 880Hz
High complexity A5
Polar - 200Hz
Circular plate, low frequency
Polar - 440Hz
Circular plate, concert pitch
Polar - 1000Hz
Complex radial pattern
Grid - 300Hz
Lattice wave pattern
Grid - 600Hz
Dense lattice pattern
Harmonic - 220Hz
Multi-harmonic superposition
Harmonic - 440Hz
Rich harmonic texture
Star - 320Hz
Angular symmetry, 4-point star
Star - 640Hz
8-point star with radial waves
Spiral - 300Hz
Rotating double-arm spiral
Spiral - 750Hz
Tight multi-arm spiral
Hexagonal - 240Hz
Honeycomb-like wave pattern
Hexagonal - 600Hz
Dense hexagonal lattice
Voronoi - 300Hz
Cellular wave interference
Voronoi - 500Hz
Multi-source wave cells
Lissajous - 300Hz
Curve-based interference
Lissajous - 600Hz
Complex Lissajous pattern
Reading a cymatics pattern
Each tile in this gallery is generated live from the same equations used in the Chladni plate simulator. Comparing them side by side is the quickest way to understand how the shape of the plate, the type of vibration and the frequency work together.
How to use the gallery
- Scan the tiles to compare the symmetry of each mode — square, circular, six-fold or free-form.
- Pick the pattern that interests you, then open the simulator with Create Your Own Pattern and choose the same mode to change its frequency and color.
- Export your favorite version as a PNG to use as a wallpaper, thumbnail or reference.
Symmetry tells you about the plate
Square plates produce patterns with horizontal, vertical and diagonal symmetry. Round plates and drum heads produce rings and spokes. Hexagonal patterns appear in systems with six-fold symmetry, which is also why honeycombs and snowflakes look the way they do.
Counting lines to find the mode
On a classic Chladni figure you can often count the nodal lines in each direction. Those counts are the mode numbers. Two modes with the same frequency can mix, which is why some real figures look like a blend of two simpler patterns.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Chladni figure?
A Chladni figure is the pattern that sand or powder forms on a vibrating plate. It traces the nodal lines — the parts of the plate that stay still at a given frequency.
Are these patterns real or computer generated?
They are computer generated from wave equations that model standing waves, so they show the same kinds of shapes seen in real experiments in a clean, repeatable form.
Can I download the patterns?
Yes. Open the Chladni plate simulator, choose the same pattern mode and use the Export PNG button.