Waves and Sound: Find Moving Train Speed

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the speed of a moving train using the Doppler effect, specifically when two train whistles with a frequency of 180 Hz produce a beat frequency of 2 Hz. The observer hears a frequency of 182 Hz when the moving train approaches. The relevant formula used is fo = fs (v + vo / v - vs), where fo is the observed frequency, fs is the source frequency, v is the speed of sound in air (344 m/s), vo is the observer's speed (0), and vs is the source speed, which needs to be isolated. The user seeks guidance on rearranging the formula to solve for vs.

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  • Concept of beat frequency in acoustics
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Homework Statement



Two train whistles have frequencies of 180 Hz in air (v = 344 m/s). When one train is at rest sounding its whistle, a beat frequency of 2 Hz is heard from the moving train which is sounding its whistle as well. What is the moving train's speed if it is approaching the station?

Homework Equations



fbeat = l fo - f1 l

fo = fs (v + vo / v - vs) ; [source is approaching the observer]

fo: observer
fs: source


The Attempt at a Solution



v = 344 m/s
fs = 180 Hz
fo = 182 Hz [fo = fbeat + fs; = 2 Hz + 180 Hz]
vo = 0
vs = ?

fo = fs (v + vo / v - vs) ; [source is approaching the observer]

I'm trying to rearrange this formula to isolate vs but for some reason I can't.
Where do I start... I've tried everything. :confused:

And sorry about all the questions, I'm having some significant trouble with this unit in physics...
 
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The first step is to multiply both sides by (v - vs). Can you see why? What is the next step?
 

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