Red Shift/Blue Shift Flashcard Version A

Front

What is Red Shift?

Back

Red Shift refers to the phenomenon where light from an object moving away from an observer is shifted to longer wavelengths, making it appear redder.

Front

What is Blue Shift?

Back

Blue Shift is the phenomenon where light from an object moving towards an observer is shifted to shorter wavelengths, making it appear bluer.

Front

What does it mean if a sound is perceived as lower pitched?

Back

A lower pitched sound is perceived when the sound waves are stretched longer, indicating the source is moving away from the observer.

Front

What does it mean if a sound is perceived as higher pitched?

Back

A higher pitched sound is perceived when the sound waves are compressed shorter, indicating the source is moving towards the observer.

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 moving relative to the wave source.

Front

How does the Doppler Effect apply to sound?

Back

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

Front

What can spectral lines tell us about a star's motion?

Back

Spectral lines can indicate whether a star is moving towards or away from us based on their shift towards blue (approaching) or red (receding) wavelengths.

Front

What is the significance of blue-shifted spectral lines?

Back

Blue-shifted spectral lines indicate that an object, such as a galaxy or star, is moving towards the observer.

Front

What is the significance of red-shifted spectral lines?

Back

Red-shifted spectral lines indicate that an object is moving away from the observer.

Front

What elements can be identified in a star's spectrum?

Back

Elements such as Hydrogen, Helium, and Calcium can be identified in a star's spectrum based on the absorption lines present.