Where Did I Go Wrong in My Doppler Effect Calculation?

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The discussion revolves around a Doppler Effect calculation involving a stationary detector measuring the frequency of a moving sound source. The user initially struggles to manipulate the equations to express the ratio of the source speed to the speed of sound. They derive an equation but find it challenging to isolate the desired ratio. Ultimately, they realize that by assuming a value for the speed of sound, they can simplify the problem and successfully solve for the ratio. The thread highlights the importance of correctly applying Doppler Effect formulas and assumptions in physics problems.
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Homework Statement



A stationary detector measures the frequency of a sound source that first moves at constant velocity directly toward the detector and then (after passing the detector) directly away from it. The emitted frequency is f.

During the approach the detected frequency is f'app and during the recession it is f'rec. If ( f'app - f'rec)/f = 0.741, what is the ratio vs /v of the speed of the source to the speed of sound?

Homework Equations



f ( f'app - f'rec)/f = 0.741

f'app=f(v/(v+v(s) )

f'rec=f(v/(v-v(s))

The Attempt at a Solution



(f(v/(v+v(s)))-(f(v/(v-v(s)))/(f) =0.741

(v/(v+v(s)))-(v/(v-v(s)))=0.741

(v(v-v(s))-v(v+v(s)))/((v+v(s))(v-v(s)) =0.741

(-2V*V(s))/((v+v(s))(v-v(s)) =0.741

Now I can't make the equation in the form V(s)/V no matter what I do. Where did I go wrong in this question?
 
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dido525 said:

Homework Equations



f ( f'app - f'rec)/f = 0.741

f'app=f(v/(v+v(s) )

f'rec=f(v/(v-v(s))
Those equations would make f'app < f and f'rec > f. Does that seem right? Even swapping them, there's a problem with the v = vs case. Check with http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doppler_effect.
 
Never mind. I got the right answer. Assume v=1 . Solve for v(s) . You have your ratio.
 
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