What is the terminal speed of the paratrooper?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a paratrooper falling from a helicopter and emitting a sound signal. The task is to determine the terminal speed of the paratrooper based on the change in frequency of the sound signal as perceived by a receiver in the helicopter.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the Doppler effect as a relevant concept and explore the equation that relates observed frequency to the source frequency and the speeds involved.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights into the Doppler effect and its application to the problem. There is an acknowledgment of the equation needed to approach the solution, but no consensus on the exact steps to take has been reached.

Contextual Notes

One participant expresses uncertainty about the equations involved and seeks guidance, indicating a need for clarification on the application of the Doppler effect in this context.

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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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