What is the significance of relative velocity in the Doppler effect?

In summary: In short, the Doppler effect is the change in frequency of a sound waves emitted from a moving object due to the relative motion of the object and the observer.
  • #1
PsychonautQQ
784
10

Homework Statement


http://grephysics.net/ans/8677/12

I don't understand how it increases it's frequency by a factor of 10, I mean the total velocity goes from 1 to 1.9, therefore It seems like it should increase from 1kHz to 1.9kHz. Why is my 'common sense' wrong?
 
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  • #2
PsychonautQQ said:
I don't understand how it increases it's frequency by a factor of 10, I mean the total velocity goes from 1 to 1.9, therefore It seems like it should increase from 1kHz to 1.9kHz. Why is my 'common sense' wrong?
What does the Doppler formula give you for the observed frequency when the source is moving? Not sure what you mean by "total velocity"--realize that the source is moving towards the listener.

(I misread the problem myself, the first time through.)
 
  • #3
frequency receiver = (velocity sound + velocity sender) * frequency sender
with velocity of sound = c and velocity of sender = .9c, It seems the frequency received is 1.9 the original frequency. No?
 
  • #4
PsychonautQQ said:
frequency receiver = (velocity sound + velocity sender) * frequency sender
with velocity of sound = c and velocity of sender = .9c, It seems the frequency received is 1.9 the original frequency. No?
No.

The Doppler formula for an approaching source is:
##f' = \frac{v}{v - v_s} f##
where ##v_s## is the speed of the source.

See: Doppler Effect
 
  • #5
Okay so the correct Doppler effect the source is in the denominator, I don't understand qualitatively why it matters though. Whether it's the receiver or sender that's movie, the relative velocity between them is going to be the same?
 
  • #6
PsychonautQQ said:
Okay so the correct Doppler effect the source is in the denominator, I don't understand qualitatively why it matters though. Whether it's the receiver or sender that's movie, the relative velocity between them is going to be the same?
Note that relative velocity (of source and observer) doesn't enter into the Doppler formula (at least for sound). The speeds are relative to the air. And that a moving source differs from a moving observer. (Compare the two cases, even for the same speed.)

To understand how this is, you'll need to review the details of the derivation of the formula.
 

FAQ: What is the significance of relative velocity in the Doppler effect?

1. What is the GRE Doppler Effect Question?

The GRE Doppler Effect Question is a question that is commonly found on the GRE Physics subject test. It tests your understanding of the Doppler Effect, which is a phenomenon where the observed frequency of a wave changes based on the relative motion of the source and observer.

2. What knowledge is required to solve the GRE Doppler Effect Question?

To solve the GRE Doppler Effect Question, you will need to have a strong understanding of the principles of wave motion, including concepts like wavelength, frequency, and wave speed. Additionally, you will need to be familiar with the formula for calculating the Doppler Effect.

3. How is the GRE Doppler Effect Question typically formatted?

The GRE Doppler Effect Question is usually presented as a word problem, where you are given information about the velocity of a moving source and/or observer, as well as the wave's frequency and speed. You will then be asked to calculate the observed frequency of the wave.

4. What are some common mistakes when solving the GRE Doppler Effect Question?

One common mistake when solving the GRE Doppler Effect Question is forgetting to take into account the direction of the motion of the source and observer. Another mistake is using the wrong formula or plugging in the wrong values. It is important to carefully read the question and double-check your calculations to avoid these errors.

5. How can I prepare for the GRE Doppler Effect Question?

To prepare for the GRE Doppler Effect Question, it is important to review the relevant concepts and formulas. Practice solving similar problems to familiarize yourself with the question format and identify any areas where you may need more practice. It can also be helpful to work with a study group or seek guidance from a tutor or teacher.

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