Dopple Effect (Frequency vs Time)

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the altitude of a jet airplane using the Doppler Effect, specifically analyzing the observed frequency versus time graph. The key equations involve resolving the jet's velocity into two components: vj*sinθ, which affects frequency, and vj*cosθ, which does not. The observed frequency can be calculated using f' = [v/(v-vj*sinθ)]*f for an approaching jet and f' = [v/(v + vj*sinθ)]*f for a receding jet. The relationship between the horizontal distance x and the altitude h is established through the equation Sinθ = x/sqrt(x^2 + h^2).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Doppler Effect and its equations
  • Basic knowledge of trigonometry, particularly sine and cosine functions
  • Familiarity with kinematics, specifically the relationship between velocity, distance, and time
  • Ability to interpret frequency versus time graphs
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the mathematical derivation of the Doppler Effect equations
  • Learn about the application of trigonometric functions in physics problems
  • Explore kinematic equations related to projectile motion
  • Investigate real-world applications of the Doppler Effect in aviation and radar technology
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Physics students, aerospace engineers, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of the Doppler Effect and its applications in real-world scenarios.

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Doppler Effect (Frequency vs Time)

Homework Statement


A jet airplane is flying above an observer parallel to the ground with speed vj. Given the observed frequency vs time graph, would you be able to calculate the altitude of the jet airplane? Explain, also, how to determine observed frequency as a function of x, where x is the initial horizontal distance of the jet airplane to the vertical directly above an observer.

Homework Equations


v = [tex]\lambda[/tex]f
x = vt

The Attempt at a Solution


I am really clueless on how to start this - I've been staring at this question for over an hour.
Is it true that if I find two values of time so that the inverse of the difference is a value of frequency on the graph, then that frequency is the frequency of the jet airplane? (The only problem is that if the jet airplane is initially moving away, this value will not be on the graph.)
Can someone give me a lead please?
 
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Resolve vj into two components. vj*sinθ towards the observer.And another component vj*cosθ perpendicular to the line joining jet and the observer. θ is the angle between vertical and line joining the jet and the observer.
vj*sinθ changes the frequency where as vj*cosθ does not affect the frequency.
So f' = [v/(v-vj*sinθ)]*f for approaching jet and f' = [v/(v + vj*sinθ)]*f for receding jet.
Sinθ = x/sqrt(x^2 + h^2) and x = vj*t.
 
Ohh I get it now. Thanks a lot!
 

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