What is the speed of the ambulance based on its siren's frequency?

  • Thread starter Thread starter nczzzzzz
  • Start date Start date
AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on calculating the speed of an ambulance based on the frequency of its siren as perceived by a stationary observer. The siren's frequency changes from 650 Hz to 750 Hz while approaching, and from 637.65 Hz to 735.75 Hz when stationary. Participants suggest using the Doppler effect formula to determine the speed, but there is confusion about identifying the correct frequencies for the source and receiver. The average speed of sound is assumed to be 343 m/s for the calculations. The conversation emphasizes the application of physics principles to solve the problem.
nczzzzzz
Messages
3
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


While standing on 3rd street you hear an approaching ambulance. Its siren oscillates in frequency between about 650 Hz and 750 Hz.

Later on as you near your destination, you come upon the scene of the accident. The now-stationary ambulance runs its siren as it's about to drive off. This time, you hear its pitch oscillate between 637.65 Hz and 735.75 Hz.

Using your physics knowledge, you estimate the speed that the ambulance must have been traveling while en route to the scene of the accident. How fast was it traveling? (Assume it's an average day where the speed of sound is about 343 m/s.)

A. 25 m/s (about 55 mph)

B. 18 m/s (about 40 mph)

C. 13 m/s (about 30 mph)

D. 9 m/s (about 20 mph)


Homework Equations



v=f*λ

The Attempt at a Solution

 
Physics news on Phys.org
welcome to pf!

hi nczzzzzz! welcome to pf! :wink:

tell us what you think, and why, and then we'll comment! :smile:

(same for your other thread)
 
I was thinking of using the doppler effect formula, but i can't figure out the frequency of the source and the receiver.
 
nczzzzzz said:
I was thinking of using the doppler effect formula, but i can't figure out the frequency of the source and the receiver.

the frequency of the source is stated in the question

(and how can a receiver have a frequency? :confused:)
 
Thread 'Collision of a bullet on a rod-string system: query'
In this question, I have a question. I am NOT trying to solve it, but it is just a conceptual question. Consider the point on the rod, which connects the string and the rod. My question: just before and after the collision, is ANGULAR momentum CONSERVED about this point? Lets call the point which connects the string and rod as P. Why am I asking this? : it is clear from the scenario that the point of concern, which connects the string and the rod, moves in a circular path due to the string...
Back
Top