Approximating an expression with the binomial expansion

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on approximating the fractional change in frequency of reflected radar from an automobile moving at speed v, a small fraction of the speed of light, using the binomial expansion. The key expression derived is \(\frac{\Delta{f}}{f} \approx 2v\), which is obtained by applying the first two terms of the binomial expansion \((1-x)^n \approx 1 - nz\) for small values of z. The user seeks clarification on the validity of approximating \(\frac{1+v}{1-v}\) as \((1+v)(1+v)\) and requests assistance in correcting their non-LaTeX equations.

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  • Understanding of binomial expansion, specifically \((1-x)^n\) approximation.
  • Basic knowledge of frequency change in physics, particularly in the context of radar.
  • Familiarity with the concept of relativistic effects on frequency.
  • Ability to format equations using LaTeX for clarity.
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  • Study the derivation of the Doppler effect in radar systems.
  • Learn more about the applications of binomial expansion in physics problems.
  • Explore LaTeX formatting techniques for mathematical expressions.
  • Investigate the implications of relativistic speeds on frequency measurements.
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Physics students, engineers working with radar technology, and anyone interested in the mathematical modeling of frequency changes due to motion.

b2386
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[tex]f_r=(\frac{1+v}{1-v})f_i[/tex]

For an automobile moving at speed v that is a small fraction of the speed of light, assume that the fractional change in frequency of reflected radar is small. Under this assumption, use the first two terms of the bionomial expansion

[tex](1-x)^n\approx{1-nz \mbox{for} |z| \ll{1}[/tex]

to show that the fractional change of frequency is given by the approximate expression

[tex]\frac{\Delta{f}}{f}\approx{2v}[/tex]



So far, I have

\frac{\Delta{f}}{f}=\frac{\frac{1+v}{1-v}\Delta{f_i}}{\frac{1+v}{1-v}f_i

Now, does the binomial expansion allow this?: [tex]\frac{1+v}{1-v}\approx{(1+v)(1+v)}[/tex]

Is this where this problem wants me to go?
 
Last edited:
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Can someone also please show me the errors in my two non-latex equations? They don't seem to want to play nicely.:cry:
 

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