How is the sound produced in a harpsichord?

The sound in a harpsichord is produced by plucking strings with quills or leather plectra. When a key is pressed, a jack, which holds the quill or plectrum, is lifted up. This allows the quill or plectrum to pluck the string and produce a sound. The key remains depressed until the finger is lifted, allowing the key to return to its resting position and causing the jack to move away from the string and prevent further sounding. The pitch of the note depends on the length and tension of the strings. Each key can control one or more strings, depending on the model of the instrument. This action mechanism of strings being plucked by a plectrum gives the harpsichord its bright, tinkling sound.