Red Shift and Blue Shift: Is It Possible?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the concepts of red shift and blue shift in relation to light emitted from objects moving toward or away from an observer. Specifically, it explores the possibility of an object emitting infrared radiation shifting into the visible spectrum due to its rapid approach, and conversely, ultraviolet radiation shifting out of the visible spectrum as it moves away. The consensus among participants is that such wavelength shifts are indeed possible under the right conditions, affirming the principles of Doppler effect in light waves.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Doppler effect in light waves
  • Knowledge of electromagnetic spectrum, particularly infrared and ultraviolet radiation
  • Familiarity with concepts of wavelength and frequency
  • Basic principles of astrophysics related to light and motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the Doppler effect in greater detail, focusing on its application in astrophysics
  • Explore the electromagnetic spectrum, emphasizing the characteristics of infrared and ultraviolet light
  • Investigate real-world examples of red shift and blue shift in astronomical observations
  • Learn about the implications of wavelength shifts on observational astronomy and spectroscopy
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, physics students, and anyone interested in the behavior of light and its interaction with moving objects will benefit from this discussion.

BJRowlett
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I was thinking today and had an idea but didn't know if it was possible. When an object moves toward or away from an observer, the light (such as visible light) "shifts", the wavelengths become closer together (moving toward you) or further apart (moving away from you).

Say for example we have an object, that only emits infrared radiation, and not any visible light.

Is it possible for this object (because its wavelength is longer than visible light) to be moving toward you so fast (so the waves propagate closer together) that its wavelengths shift into visible light?

Or the opposite for ultraviolet radiation?

Thanks!
 
Science news on Phys.org
Naturally thinking, my answer is Yes.
 

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