What is the terminal speed of the paratrooper?

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SUMMARY

The terminal speed of a paratrooper dropping from a helicopter, while emitting a 788 Hz signal, is calculated using the Doppler effect. Given that the perceived frequency is 412 Hz and the speed of sound in air is 343 m/s, the correct terminal speed is determined to be 313.03 m/s. The relevant equation used is f' = f [(v + v1)/(v - v2)], where f' is the observed frequency, f is the source frequency, v is the speed of sound, and u is the speed of the observer or source.

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Homework Statement


A helicopter drops a paratrooper carrying a siren that emits a 788 Hz audible signal. The microphone (reciever) on the plane monitors the signal from the transmitter as the paratrooper falls. Take the speed of sound in air to be 343 m/s and assume the paratroopers always remains below the helicopter. If the perceived frequency becomes constant at 412 Hz, what is the terminal speed of the paratrooper? Answer in units of m/s.


Homework Equations


Not sure... could you guys help me out.

Possibly Speed = wavelength * frequency ??


The Attempt at a Solution


Probably would need an equation first.
 
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Try and use your knowledge of the doppler effect for this.
 
I don't really know much about it.

f' = f [(v+v1)/(v-v2)]

that's the equation. could you please walk me through this problem.
 
Ok so the doppler effect is the apparent change in frequency of a wave due to the motion of the source or the observer.
So f' is the observed and f is the frequency of the source.

f' = \frac{fv}{v\pm u}

where v is the speed of sound and u is the speed of the source or the observer.
If the source is approaching you it is v - u and if it is moving away it is v + u.
 
Last edited:
Okay. That was very helpful. I got the answer of 313.03.

I submitted online and it is correct.

Thanks!
 
No problem, happy to help.
 

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