Astronomy : Velocity of approach of the Sun's equator

In summary, the rotational period of the sun at the equator is 25 days, with a maximum velocity of 2.04 m/s. The maximum change in wavelength of a spectral line due to this rotation is 6.48*10^14 m, expressed as a percentage of the rest wavelength of the line.
  • #1
bri7
7
0
The sun's rotational period is 25 days at the equator. Given that the radius of the sun is 700,000 km, calculate the max velocity of approach or recession of the Sun's equator as viewed from Earth. Find the max change in wavelength of a spectral line due to the rotation and express it as a percentage of the rest wavelength of the line.

Relevant equations
Circular motion formula v = (2*pi*r)/period

Frequency = 1/period
wavelength = c/frequency

The attempt at a solution
Convert period into seconds
P = 2 160 000 sec

Convert radius of Sun into m
r = 7*10^7 m

v = (2*pi*7*10^7m)/2 160 000 s
= 2.04 m/s

frequency = 1/period
f = 1/ 2 160 000

wavelength = c/f
= 6.48*10^14 m

I'm not really sure what the question is asking beyond this
 
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  • #2
bri7 said:
Convert radius of Sun into m
r = 7*10^7 m

How many meters are there in 1 km? You also neef to recheck your other computations because you are randomly getting the powers of 10 wrong.

frequency = 1/period
f = 1/ 2 160 000

wavelength = c/f
= 6.48*10^14 m

No, this is not the frequency of the light. It is the frequency of rotation. The actual frequency of the light is irrelevant for the question as it asks you for a ratio for the Doppler shift of the light frequency.
 

1. What is the velocity of approach of the Sun's equator?

The velocity of approach of the Sun's equator is approximately 220 kilometers per second. This is the speed at which the Sun rotates on its axis, causing its equator to move towards us.

2. How is the velocity of approach of the Sun's equator measured?

The velocity of approach of the Sun's equator can be measured using the Doppler effect. This is a phenomenon where the wavelength of light from a moving source appears to be shifted. By analyzing the shifting wavelengths of light from the Sun, scientists can calculate its velocity of approach.

3. Does the velocity of approach of the Sun's equator change?

Yes, the velocity of approach of the Sun's equator is constantly changing. This is due to various factors such as the Sun's location in its orbit, its rotation speed, and the gravitational pull of other objects in the solar system.

4. How does the velocity of approach of the Sun's equator affect Earth?

The velocity of approach of the Sun's equator does not have a direct effect on Earth. However, it does contribute to the overall motion of our solar system, which can impact the orbits of planets and other objects.

5. Can the velocity of approach of the Sun's equator be used to predict future events?

Yes, the velocity of approach of the Sun's equator is an important factor in predicting future events such as solar eclipses and the movements of other planets in our solar system. By understanding this velocity, scientists can make more accurate predictions about the motions and interactions of celestial bodies.

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