Relativity: Gravitational Redshifting

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the gravitational redshifting of a signal with a frequency of 500 GHz emitted from Alpha Centauri and received on Earth. The gravitational redshift equation, 1/sqrt(rs/r) - 1, is introduced, but its application is questioned due to the assumption of infinite separation between the two bodies. Participants discuss the implications of redshift and blueshift, emphasizing the need to clarify the variables involved in the equation for accurate calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational redshift and its mathematical representation.
  • Familiarity with the concepts of frequency and wave propagation in astrophysics.
  • Knowledge of the variables rs (gravitational radius) and r (distance from the mass center).
  • Basic principles of signal transmission and reception in astrophysical contexts.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of gravitational redshift in astrophysical signals.
  • Learn about the effects of distance on signal frequency in a vacuum.
  • Research the concept of blueshift and its relationship to gravitational potential.
  • Explore advanced applications of the gravitational redshift equation in cosmology.
USEFUL FOR

Astronomy students, astrophysicists, and educators looking to deepen their understanding of gravitational effects on signal transmission in space.

sawre
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Homework Statement


A signal of frequency 500Ghz leaves the surface of the star Alpha Centauri,
travels through space, and arrives at the surface of the Earth. At what frequency is the signal
received on planet Earth?
(Hint: For this problem, treat Earth and Alpha Centauri as if the separation were infinite. Also,
ignore any cosmological effects, motion of the star or planet, and any interstellar scattering effects)

Homework Equations



Gravitational redshifting: 1/sqrt(rs/r) -1

The Attempt at a Solution



The equation for gravitational redshifting doesn't seem to be useful in this situation since Earth is taken to be infinitely far away. Just be thinking about it one could deduce that the signal is redshifted at first and then blueshifted at earth. But if this is correct I don't know of an equation for shifting from a low gravitational potential to a higher one. Anyone have some hints to get me thinking in the right direction?
 
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sawre said:

Homework Statement


A signal of frequency 500Ghz leaves the surface of the star Alpha Centauri,
travels through space, and arrives at the surface of the Earth. At what frequency is the signal
received on planet Earth?
(Hint: For this problem, treat Earth and Alpha Centauri as if the separation were infinite. Also,
ignore any cosmological effects, motion of the star or planet, and any interstellar scattering effects)


Homework Equations



Gravitational redshifting: 1/sqrt(rs/r) -1

The Attempt at a Solution



The equation for gravitational redshifting doesn't seem to be useful in this situation since Earth is taken to be infinitely far away. Just be thinking about it one could deduce that the signal is redshifted at first and then blueshifted at earth. But if this is correct I don't know of an equation for shifting from a low gravitational potential to a higher one. Anyone have some hints to get me thinking in the right direction?

Make sure you know what the variables r and rs represent. You may need to apply this equation more than once.

Cheers -- sylas
 
ah..i was labouring under an obviously wrong idea of what the r stood for. thanks
 

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