What is meant by the doppler effect?

The doppler effect is the change in frequency and wavelength of waves coming from a wave source moving relative to you. If a wavesource is stationary then the waves in all directions all have the same frequency and wavelength, with the waves forming concentric (surrounding) circles around the wave source. If a wave source is moving, however, the waves located in the direction it is moving will be compressed, leading to them having a shorter wavelength and a higher frequency. On the other side of the wave source, the opposite occurs. You may have heard this effect from an ambulance, as the pitch of it's siren rises when its frequency increases (when it approaches you) and lowers when it moves away. The same principle can be used to determine the velocity of distant stars.

TD
Answered by Thomas D. Physics tutor

1876 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

Water flows through an electric shower at a rate of 6kg per minute. Assuming no heat is transferred to the surroundings, what power is required to heat the water by 20K as it flow through the shower?


Name an experiment proving that light is wave and one that is proving that light consists of particles.


A light wave with wavelength 590nm shines upon a metal and causes it to emit an electron with a speed of 5x10^5 m/s. What is the work function of the metal?


Give the definition simple harmonic motion and write down the defining equation for such motion stating the meaning of any symbols involved.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences