Doppler effect star and earth question

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the velocity of a star moving away from Earth based on the observed change in wavelength of light emitted by the star. The emitted wavelength is 659.7 nm, while the observed wavelength on Earth is 661.1 nm, indicating a redshift. The participant seeks clarification on using the formula for velocity, specifically velocity = wavelength * frequency, and understanding the relationship between frequency, wavelength, and the speed of light, which is approximately 300,000,000 m/s. The correct approach involves applying the Doppler effect formula to determine the star's velocity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Doppler effect in light waves
  • Familiarity with wavelength and frequency calculations
  • Knowledge of the speed of light (approximately 300,000,000 m/s)
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the Doppler effect formula for light: z = (λ_observed - λ_emitted) / λ_emitted
  • Learn how to convert between wavelength and frequency using frequency = speed of light / wavelength
  • Explore redshift and blueshift concepts in astrophysics
  • Investigate practical applications of the Doppler effect in astronomy
USEFUL FOR

Astronomy students, astrophysicists, and anyone interested in understanding the motion of celestial bodies relative to Earth.

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Hello I have a question that is giving me trouble:

Light of wavelength 659.7 nm is emitted by a star. The wavelength of this light as measured on Earth is 661.1 nm.

How fast is the star moving with respect to Earth? km/s

Is it moving toward Earth or away from it?

Here's where I'm at. I have reasoned that since the wavelength is increasing that the star is moving away. My main problem is determining the frequency of the light. I assume that I can use the formula:

velocity = wavelength * frequency

however the frequency I get just seems wrong. The units are throwing me off too, any help would be greatly appreciated.
 
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What is the equation for the change in frequency of a wave based on its speed and the speed of the emitter? And keep in mind that the speed of light is about 300*10^6m/s (check this before using it, though), so that gives you a way to convert between frequency and wavelength.


EDIT -- Fixed typo in speed of light. It's 300*10^6, not *10^8. Sorry.
 
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