Doppler Effect and Red Shift

Front

What is the Doppler Effect?

Back

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

Front

What causes redshift in light from distant galaxies?

Back

Redshift occurs because the galaxies are moving away from us, causing the light waves to stretch and shift towards the red end of the spectrum.

Front

What is blueshift?

Back

Blueshift is the phenomenon where light from an object moving towards an observer is shifted to shorter wavelengths, appearing bluer.

Front

How does the Doppler Effect apply to sound?

Back

As a sound source moves towards an observer, the sound waves compress, resulting in a higher pitch. As it moves away, the waves stretch, resulting in a lower pitch.

Front

What is the electromagnetic spectrum?

Back

The electromagnetic spectrum is the range of all types of electromagnetic radiation, organized by wavelength.

Front

What characteristic organizes the electromagnetic spectrum?

Back

The electromagnetic spectrum is organized by wavelength.

Front

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

Back

The wavelength of light increases (stretches), resulting in a redshift.

Front

What is the significance of absorption spectra in astronomy?

Back

Absorption spectra help astronomers determine the composition, temperature, density, and motion of stars and galaxies.

Front

What does a redshift indicate about the motion of a galaxy?

Back

A redshift indicates that the galaxy is moving away from the observer.

Front

What does a blueshift indicate about the motion of a galaxy?

Back

A blueshift indicates that the galaxy is moving towards the observer.