Doppler effect of light spectrum

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the Doppler effect of light and its implications for understanding the expansion of the universe. Participants explore the nature of light waves, the concept of wave function stretching, and the evidence supporting current cosmological models.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that the redshift observed in distant galaxies could be explained by the stretching of the wave function over space-time, akin to waves in a pond.
  • Another participant counters that the wave function remains consistent in wavelength, and it is the expansion of the universe that causes the spatial distance between wavelength peaks and troughs to increase.
  • A third participant expresses curiosity about the proof that light does not stretch, indicating a desire for clarification on this aspect.
  • A later reply humorously suggests that there may be no proof available regarding the stretching of light.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus, as there are competing views regarding the nature of light waves and the implications of their behavior over long distances.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the lack of clarity on what constitutes proof regarding the properties of light and the assumptions underlying the discussion of wave behavior in the context of cosmology.

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When we first realized that the further away a galaxy is the further towards the red side of the spectrum it was, we beleived this to be do to the expansion of the universe? Wouldn't it have been simplier to say that the further away a galaxy was the further the wave function stretched over space time? Just like in a pond? I know this is crazy as it would spell the end of current consmology. I just want to know why the second one didnt make more sense?
 
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As far as I understand the wave function doesn't stretch, it stays consistent in it's wavelength. It is the expansion of the universe that is causing it to outstretch as the spatial distance itself in between wavelength peaks/troughs is actually growing.

EDIT: Oh you are asking wouldn't it be simpler to conclude that a property of waves is that over long distances they slowly stretch? It probably contradicted already known properties of waves but I'm not certain.
 
yes, I figured it had to do with the fact that it has been proving that light does not stretch. I was wondering what this proof is?
 
nothing?
 

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