Energy Change Due to Doppler Shift

In summary, the Doppler effect is a phenomenon where the frequency or wavelength of a wave changes in relation to an observer's motion. This can be observed in sound waves and can affect the energy of the wave, leading to phenomena such as redshift and blueshift. It is not limited to sound waves and is used in various scientific and technological applications, including radar, astronomy, and medical imaging.
  • #1
deadscientist
29
0
Hello all, so let's suppose a photon is being gravitationally red or blue shifted changing its frequency which ultimately changes its energy, where does this energy change come from?
 
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  • #2
I believe it's from the potential energy of the system. (Photon + object attracting it)
The photon gains energy and the system loses an equal amount of potential energy or vice versa.
 
  • #3
Suppose a drop a ball in a gravitational field and it gains kinetic energy. Where does this energy change come from?
 
  • #4
Thankyou all, answers were very helpful
 
  • #5


The energy change in the photon due to Doppler shift is a result of the conservation of energy principle. As the photon moves through a gravitational field, its frequency and energy are affected by the change in the strength of the gravitational field. This change in energy is due to the conversion of the photon's kinetic energy into potential energy as it moves through the field. This is similar to how a ball gains potential energy as it is lifted against the force of gravity. Therefore, the energy change in the photon is not coming from any external source, but rather from within the system itself. This phenomenon is well understood and has been observed in various astronomical objects, providing evidence for the effects of gravity on light.
 

What is the Doppler effect?

The Doppler effect is the change in frequency or wavelength of a wave in relation to an observer who is moving relative to the source of the wave. This effect is commonly observed with sound waves, where a moving source or observer can cause a shift in the perceived pitch of the sound.

How does the Doppler effect affect energy?

The Doppler effect can cause a change in the energy of a wave, as the perceived frequency or wavelength is altered. This can result in a change in the amount of energy that is transferred by the wave, which can be observed in phenomena such as redshift and blueshift.

What is energy change due to Doppler shift?

Energy change due to Doppler shift refers to the change in energy that occurs when the frequency or wavelength of a wave is altered by the Doppler effect. This can be seen in various situations, such as the change in energy of light from distant galaxies due to their relative motion.

Does the Doppler effect only affect sound waves?

No, the Doppler effect can affect any type of wave, including light waves and water waves. It is a fundamental principle in physics and can be observed in a wide range of phenomena.

How is the Doppler effect used in science and technology?

The Doppler effect is used in various scientific and technological applications, such as in radar and sonar systems. It is also used in astronomy to study the motion and properties of celestial objects, and in medical imaging techniques such as Doppler ultrasound.

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