Doppler Effect and Redshift

Front

What is the Doppler Effect?

Back

The Doppler Effect is the change in frequency or wavelength of a wave in relation to an observer who is moving relative to the wave source.

Front

What happens to the wavelength of light when an object moves away from an observer?

Back

The wavelength increases, resulting in redshift.

Front

What is redshift?

Back

Redshift is the phenomenon where light from an object moving away from an observer is shifted towards the red end of the spectrum, indicating an increase in wavelength.

Front

What is blueshift?

Back

Blueshift is the phenomenon where light from an object moving towards an observer is shifted towards the blue end of the spectrum, indicating a decrease in wavelength.

Front

How does the Doppler Effect apply to sound waves?

Back

As a sound source moves towards an observer, the sound waves compress, leading to a higher frequency (pitch). As it moves away, the waves stretch, leading to a lower frequency.

Front

What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength in the context of the Doppler Effect?

Back

Frequency and wavelength are inversely related; as frequency increases, wavelength decreases, and vice versa.

Front

What does a redshifted galaxy indicate about its motion?

Back

A redshifted galaxy indicates that it is moving away from the observer.

Front

What does a blueshifted galaxy indicate about its motion?

Back

A blueshifted galaxy indicates that it is moving towards the observer.

Front

How can astronomers determine the speed of a galaxy moving away from Earth?

Back

Astronomers can determine the speed of a galaxy by measuring the amount of redshift in its light spectrum.

Front

What is the significance of the Hubble's Law in relation to redshift?

Back

Hubble's Law states that the farther away a galaxy is, the faster it is moving away from us, which is observed through redshift.