Guitar strings are the vibrating element of the instrument that produces the sound. The strings are made of a flexible material held under tension so they are able to vibrate freely as the guitar is played.
Guitar strings are made from a variety of material depending on the type of guitar. The majority of electric and bass guitars utilize steel strings whereas classical guitars tend to be played with nylon. Steel strings tend to have a much “brighter” sound to them and nylon strings a much “warmer” sound. The other main reason for electric guitars using metal strings is so that electromagnetic signals can be passed to the pickups in the guitar its self.
Acoustic guitar strings are usually wound with bronze however to resist from sweat and other dirt, aluminum may be used as a resistant alloy. The bass strings on a classical guitar are also wound with silver or bronze. The strings on an electric guitar are usually would with nickel-plated steel however pure nickel and stainless steel are also used to achieve a different sound.
Guitar strings also come in a variety of gauges subject to personal preference. An acoustic guitar is typically strung with a heavier gauge than an electric guitar. This is due to the volume projection an acoustic instrument needs in order to be heard. An electric guitar can be strung with a light to medium gauge as the sound is amplified after being played.