Calculating Frequency of Hydrogen Light in a Moving Galaxy

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the frequency of hydrogen light emitted from a galaxy moving away from Earth at a speed of 2.3×107 m/s. The relevant equations include V=fλ for frequency calculation and the Doppler effect formula Δf/f = v/c for determining the change in frequency. The speed of light is given as 3.0×108 m/s. Participants emphasize the importance of applying the Doppler effect to compute the observed frequency accurately.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Doppler effect in wave physics
  • Familiarity with the relationship between wavelength, frequency, and speed of light
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
  • Knowledge of light properties, specifically hydrogen emission wavelengths
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the Doppler effect in detail, focusing on its application in astrophysics
  • Learn how to calculate frequency using the equation V=fλ
  • Explore the implications of redshift in astronomy
  • Review examples of light emission from moving sources in physics
USEFUL FOR

Astronomy students, physics enthusiasts, and anyone interested in understanding the effects of motion on light frequency measurements.

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Homework Statement



A galaxy is moving away from the Earth at a speed of [tex]2.3\times 10^7 m/s^1[/tex]. Hydrogen emits light of wavelength 410nm. The speed of light is [tex]3.0\times 10^8 m/s^1[/tex] Calculate th frequency of hydrogen light emission that you would expect to measure on earth.

Homework Equations



I'm not really sure! I would have thought judging by what I have done previous to this.

[tex]V=f\lambda[/tex]

[tex]\frac{\Delta f}{f} = \frac {v}{c}[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



I really can't think of anything, I would have thought there were 2 steps to it. Possibly the first equation to find the frequency of Hygrogen? I'm really stuck

Help would be great :smile:
 
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All you have to do is to compute the change in frequency due to Doppler's Effect, you have the speed of the source and the speed of the wave.
Check the general section on the wiki for more details on the formulas :)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doppler_effect
 

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