Wavelength Diagram: Difference in Intensity Blueshift vs Redshift

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the differences in wavelength intensity between blueshift and redshift, with a focus on finding a suitable diagram to illustrate these concepts. The subject area pertains to the physics of light and wave phenomena.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the terminology used, particularly the use of "intensity" in relation to wavelength shifts. There is an exploration of the energy differences between blue and red photons, and questions arise about the nature of diagrams versus formulas.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with some participants providing clarifications about the terminology and suggesting that the original poster may need to reconsider the type of visual representation they are seeking. There is a recognition of the need to understand the underlying causes of wavelength shifts.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the original poster is new to the topic, which may influence their understanding and the terminology they use. There is also a suggestion to explore the mechanics behind the energy changes associated with blueshift and redshift.

Grove1996
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Hey

I have to find a diagram that shows the difference in wavelength intensity between a blueshift and a redshift. I've searched for a while but all the diagrams I find are pretty awful. If anyone knows any that decent ones would you mind linking it below? All I can find is the colour spectrum but it doesn't show anything in terms of the intensity.

Thankyou
Regards,
Grove1996
 
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I don't think that "intensity" is the word you are looking for. A shift won't change the intensity of the light (one ray can't become four).

A single "blue photon" carries more energy than a "red photon", maybe that is what you are thinking of?
 
NascentOxygen said:
I don't think that "intensity" is the word you are looking for. A shift won't change the intensity of the light (one ray can't become four).

A single "blue photon" carries more energy than a "red photon", maybe that is what you are thinking of?

Yes that it is. Sorry for the mistake haha, I'm still new to the topic.
 
So, we've sorted that out. :wink:

Next, are you really looking for a diagram? Maybe you mean "formula"?

In case you are really wondering where does that extra energy come from, the extra energy carried by a blue ray which used to be a white ray? I don't know the mechanism.
 
This sounds like you need to qualitatively diagram a red and blue shift. So the first thing you need to do is figure out what causes these shifts? Draw a source and an observer with some arbitrary wavelength of radiation emanating from the source. Now ask yourself what has to happen to cause a shift in the wavelength as seen by the observer without altering the actual wavelength of radiation coming from the source?

I might be misunderstanding the question but that is my take on it.
 

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