Doppler Effect + Wavelength problem

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on a Doppler Effect problem involving a sound source emitting a frequency of 210 Hz, with sound traveling through still air at 340 m/s. The listener moves towards the stationary source at 85 m/s, resulting in a perceived frequency (f') of 262.5 Hz. The wavelength is calculated using the speed of sound and the perceived frequency, yielding a wavelength of 1.295 meters. The key takeaway is that the wavelength is determined by the speed of sound in still air divided by the perceived frequency.

PREREQUISITES
  • Doppler Effect principles
  • Basic wave equations (v = wavelength * frequency)
  • Understanding of sound propagation in air
  • Knowledge of frequency and wavelength relationships
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the Doppler Effect formula for sound waves
  • Explore advanced applications of the Doppler Effect in different mediums
  • Learn about sound wave interference and its effects on perceived frequency
  • Investigate the impact of relative motion on wave properties in physics
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on wave mechanics, acoustics, and the Doppler Effect. This discussion is beneficial for anyone seeking to understand the relationship between frequency, wavelength, and relative motion in sound propagation.

KendrickLamar
Messages
26
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



A sound source emits sounds of frequency 210 Hz that travel through still air at 340 m/s. The listener moves at 85 m/s relative to still air toward the stationary source. What is the wavelength of the sound between the source and the listener?

Homework Equations



f' = f[1+ Vlistener/Vsound]
v=(wavelength)f

The Attempt at a Solution


well using the doppler effect since the listener is moving towards the stationary source i know it will be f'=f[1+Vlistener/Vsound]

i find the f' right... but when using v=wavelength*frequency, which frequency do i actually use. because i know although I am solving for f' , I am just wondering if its a trick or something because I'm a little confused on the concept.

so for f' i get 262.5 Hz

then i plug it into the v=wavelength*freq , but which velocity do i use? the speed of sound or the speed of the listener moving?

using the speed of sound i get 340 m/s = wavelength * 262.5 and end up with 1.295m as the wavelength.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
If the source is not moving the waves are unchanged and their wavelength is simply given by v/f where v is their speed in still air and f the original frequency.
The frequency of the sound heard by the moving listener is higher because he passes through the approaching waves at a higher rate than if he were stationary. The Doppler formula will give this new frequency.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
1K
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
1K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Replies
1
Views
2K