In a doppler shift why does a moving source show no increase in speed of the mechanical waves emitted?

I'll first ask the student to explain the difference between a moving source and moving observer, prompting them until they get something like this(asking them to draw a diagram if needed)- When the observer moves(towards source): frequency increases but the wavelength is the same, therefore the wavelengths appear faster to the observer. When the source moves(towards observer): frequency stays the same but the wavelength shortens.

Despite what common sence would have you believe about velocities being cumulative, the wave's speed depends on the properties of the medium, not the motion of the source. The speed for a classical wave is constant in any given medium when stationary relative to the medium.

JG
Answered by James G. Physics tutor

2104 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

An electric heater has a power of 1000W. It is connected to mains electricity (230V). The heater is equipped with an Earth wire. a) Calculate the current in the heater. b) Explain the role of the earth wire as a safety feature.


A Car of mass 1000kg applies a constant 200N breaking force over a distance of 30m and comes to a complete stop. How fast was the car going the instant the brakes were engaged.


Explain the different sources of background radiation


Explain, in terms of pressure, how straws draw water into your mouth.


We're here to help

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

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning