What is the Period of the Sun's Rotation Based on Doppler Shift of Light?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the Sun's rotation period using the Doppler shift of light, specifically the H-alpha line at a wavelength of 656.1 nm. The observed wavelength difference, Δλ = 9 × 10-12 m, is attributed to the Sun's rotation, with a radius of 1.4 x 106 km. The user explores both relativistic and classical approaches to determine the velocity (v) and subsequently the period using the formula 2πr/v. The consensus is that while a classical calculation may suffice, a relativistic approach is necessary for precision in certain contexts.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Doppler shift in light
  • Familiarity with relativistic physics concepts
  • Knowledge of basic algebra and calculus
  • Ability to apply formulas for circular motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of the Doppler effect in astrophysics
  • Learn about relativistic velocity transformations
  • Explore the mathematical derivation of the period of rotation for celestial bodies
  • Investigate the differences between classical and relativistic Doppler shifts
USEFUL FOR

Astronomy students, physicists, and anyone interested in the dynamics of celestial bodies and the application of Doppler shift in astrophysical measurements.

P3X-018
Messages
144
Reaction score
0
I have to calculate the suns period time, when given the following information;

"The H_{alpha} line has the wavelength \lambda_0 = 656.1~nm. Measuring this spectrum from opposite sites of the suns equator, shows that there is a difference between that is \Delta \lambda=9\times 10^{-12}~m. Asume that this effect is due to the rotation of the sun. Find the period, when the suns radius is 1.4 x 10^6 km."

Wouldn't the difference just be (if calculated relativisticly)

\Delta \lambda = \left( \sqrt{\frac{1+v/c}{1-v/c}} - \sqrt{\frac{1-v/c}{1+v/c}} \right)\lambda_0

Then just solving for v in that equation, and the periode would then be 2\pi r/v? I just want to know if my assumption is correct, because I keep getting the wrong answer. If the assumption is correct then I just have better check my math.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Why do you need to calculate it relativistically? It's just a doppler frequency shift, not a gravitational red shift.
 
Yea why wouldn't I just calculate it classical, a lot less algebra, and gives the right answer. But even though calculating relativisticly I should get and answer almost equal to the classical one. But then again, I must have made an error in the calculation. Thanks any way.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K