Motion of Source Effects Frequency of Wave: an Exploration

In summary, the motion of the source can affect the frequency of a wave, but constant speed motion does not change the propagation speed relative to the medium. However, the observed propagation speed will change for an observer at rest. This is because the Doppler effect is not related to the propagation speed in the medium.
  • #1
gstar2002
3
0
i know that motion of source can change the frequency of wave.
constant speed motion will not change the wave progagation relative to water itself.but from the point of a observer at speed 0, the propagation speed will change. so my question is what will happen to frequency?
thanks for help. maybe the motion is then not wave.
 
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  • #2
Suppose that the source doesn't move. In T, the source emits a full wavelength d = vT, where v is the propagation speed in moving medium. The wave front approaches the observer with speed v. So to pass the observer a distance d (= 1 wavelength), it takes time = d/v = T. So nothing changes :smile: The result is not surprising, as Doppler effect has nothing to do with propagation speed in the medium.
 

1. What is the motion of source effect on the frequency of a wave?

The motion of the source effect on the frequency of a wave refers to the change in the perceived frequency of a wave caused by the motion of the source or observer. This phenomenon is known as the Doppler effect, where the frequency of a wave increases or decreases depending on the relative motion between the source and observer.

2. How does the direction of motion affect the frequency of a wave?

The direction of motion of the source or observer determines whether the frequency of the wave will increase or decrease. If the source and observer are moving towards each other, the frequency will increase. Conversely, if they are moving away from each other, the frequency will decrease.

3. What factors influence the magnitude of the motion of source effect?

The magnitude of the motion of source effect is influenced by several factors, including the speed of the source or observer, the speed of sound in the medium, and the angle between the direction of motion and the direction of the wave. As these factors change, the magnitude of the effect will also change.

4. Can the motion of source effect be observed in all types of waves?

Yes, the motion of source effect can be observed in all types of waves, including sound waves, light waves, and water waves. However, the magnitude of the effect may vary depending on the properties of the medium through which the wave is travelling.

5. What are some real-life applications of the motion of source effect?

The motion of source effect has many practical applications, including sonar and radar technology, which use the Doppler effect to measure the speed and direction of moving objects. It is also used in medical imaging techniques, such as ultrasound, to detect and measure the movement of fluids in the body.

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