The Doppler effect is the apparent change in the frequency or wavelength of a wave observed when there is relative motion between the wave source and the observer. It occurs for all types of waves, including sound, light, and water waves.
Explanation:
- When the wave source moves toward the observer, the waves get compressed, leading to a higher frequency and shorter wavelength (perceived as a higher pitch for sound).
- When the wave source moves away from the observer, the waves stretch out, resulting in a lower frequency and longer wavelength (perceived as a lower pitch for sound).
Example:
- Sound: The change in the pitch of an ambulance siren as it moves past you.
- Light: Astronomers observe the Doppler effect in starlight to determine whether stars and galaxies are moving closer or farther away from Earth.
Formula (Sound Waves):
For sound waves, the observed frequency is given by:
Where:
- : Observed frequency
- : Source frequency
- : Speed of sound
- : Speed of the observer (positive if moving toward the source)
- : Speed of the source (positive if moving away from the observer)
The Doppler effect is widely used in various fields such as radar, medical imaging, and astrophysics.
1 Comments
Nice
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