Doppler Effect and Red Shift

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 light from an object moving away from an observer?

Back

The light is redshifted, meaning its wavelengths are stretched, making it appear more red.

Front

What is redshift?

Back

Redshift is the phenomenon where light from an object moving away from an observer shifts 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 shifts towards the blue end of the spectrum.

Front

How can we tell if a star is moving away from Earth?

Back

If the light from the star is redshifted, it indicates that the star is moving away from Earth.

Front

What does it mean if a galaxy is blue shifted?

Back

It means the galaxy is moving towards Earth, causing its light to shift towards the blue end of the spectrum.

Front

What is the significance of the absorption spectra of stars?

Back

The absorption spectra can indicate the composition of a star and its motion relative to Earth.

Front

How does the Doppler Effect apply to sound?

Back

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

Front

What is the relationship between the speed of light and redshift?

Back

The greater the speed at which an object is moving away from an observer, the greater the redshift observed in its light.

Front

What is the electromagnetic spectrum?

Back

The electromagnetic spectrum is the range of all types of electromagnetic radiation, including visible light, radio waves, and X-rays.