Detecting Jupiter-like Planets Using the Doppler Effect

In summary, the conversation discusses the precision of measurements of radial velocities using the Doppler effect and whether or not a Jupiter-like planet can be detected orbiting a star similar to the Sun at the same distance as the Sun and Jupiter. Relevant data to consider includes the masses of Jupiter (Mj = 1.898*10^27 kg) and the Sun (Ms = 1.989*10^30 kg) and the distance between them (d = 778500000 km). The equations used to calculate the radial velocity (vr) and the real velocity (v) are |vr|= v sin(i) and a*/ap = v*/vp = v*r/vpr, where a* and ap are the semim
  • #1
adgar
7
0

Homework Statement

The precision in measurements of radial velocities by the Doppler effect is currently 1 m/s.
Can a Jupiter like planet orbiting a star similar to the Sun at a distance from the mother star equal to the Sun-Jupiter distance be detected?'
(Use www or other sources to find the mass of Jupiter, the Sun and the distance between the two which are the only data you are allowed to use).

Ms = 1.989*10^30 kg
Mj = 1.898*10^27 kg
d = 778500000 km

Homework Equations


|vr|= v sin(i), where
vr is the radial velocity
v is the real velocity
and i is the inclination of the orbit.

a*/ap = v*/vp = v*r/vpr
where a* and ap are the semimajor axis of the sun and the planet.

Kepler's 3. low can maybe be usefull.

The Attempt at a Solution

 
Last edited:
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  • #2
Hello ad and welcome to PF.
Did you notice PF requires the use of the template (which somehow you circumvaded) ? Ýou got as far as point 1. Now 2 and 3, please !
 

1. How does the Doppler Effect help in detecting Jupiter-like planets?

The Doppler Effect is a phenomenon where the frequency of a wave appears to change when the source of the wave is moving relative to the observer. In the case of detecting Jupiter-like planets, the gravitational pull of the planet causes the star it orbits to wobble, which in turn causes a shift in the star's spectral lines. By analyzing this shift, scientists can determine the presence of a planet and its characteristics, such as its mass and distance from the star.

2. What instruments are used to detect planets using the Doppler Effect?

The most commonly used instrument is a high-resolution spectrograph, which can measure the precise wavelengths of light emitted by a star. These measurements are then compared to the expected wavelengths, and any discrepancies can indicate the presence of a planet. Other instruments, such as radial velocity spectrometers and interferometers, can also be used to measure the Doppler shift of a star's light.

3. What are the limitations of using the Doppler Effect to detect planets?

One limitation is that the Doppler Effect can only detect planets that are in relatively close orbits around their star. This means that it is not as effective in detecting planets that are further away from their star, such as gas giants in the outer regions of a solar system. Additionally, the Doppler Effect is best suited for detecting large, massive planets, so smaller planets may not be detected using this method.

4. Can the Doppler Effect be used to detect planets in other star systems?

Yes, the Doppler Effect has been successfully used to detect planets in other star systems. In fact, the majority of the known exoplanets (planets outside of our solar system) have been discovered using the Doppler Effect method. This is because it is a relatively simple and effective way to detect the presence of planets.

5. How do scientists confirm the presence of a planet detected using the Doppler Effect?

After detecting a potential planet using the Doppler Effect, scientists use other methods to confirm its presence. This can include using transit photometry to observe the planet passing in front of the star, or direct imaging to capture an image of the planet itself. Combining multiple detection methods helps to confirm the existence of a planet and gather more information about its characteristics.

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