Doppler shift question (galaxy movement)

AI Thread Summary
The observed wavelength of hydrogen from a distant galaxy is 662.6 nm, compared to its rest wavelength of 656 nm, indicating the galaxy is moving away from us. The calculated velocity of this movement is 3018 km/sec, derived using the formula for Doppler shift. The calculation is confirmed to be correct, providing confidence for the upcoming quiz. Understanding the Doppler effect is crucial for interpreting galaxy movements in astrophysics. This example illustrates the practical application of theoretical equations in real-world scenarios.
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Homework Statement



In a distant galaxy, an emission line of hydrogen that has a rest wavelength of 656 nm has an observed wavelength of 662.6 nm. Is the galaxy moving away from us or toward us? How fast is it moving in (km/sec)?


Homework Equations



velocity = ((shifted wavelength - rest wavelength)(c)) / rest wavelength

The Attempt at a Solution



velocity = ((6.626 x 10^-10 km - 6.56 x 10^-10 km)(3 x 10^5 km)) / 6.56 x 10^-10 km = 3018 km/sec

My answer is: the galaxy is moving away from us at 3018 km/sec. I'm hoping someone can tell me if this answer is correct. My instructor assigned this as a homework question and will be using it as a quiz question as well, so it's a double whammy if I don't have the right answer.
 
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