Doppler Effect Lecture Notes Review

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts from the Doppler Effect lecture.

Doppler Effect

A shifting of observed wavelengths due to a relative motion between the observer and the source.

Stationary Object Light Emission

When an object is sitting still emitting a wavelength of light in all directions, observers will measure the same wavelength of light regardless of their position.

Observer on Approaching Side (Doppler Effect)

Measures a wavelength shorter than the one emitted by a moving object.

Observer on Receding Side (Doppler Effect)

Measures a wavelength longer than the one emitted by a moving object.

Redshift

A shift of wavelength towards longer wavelengths (characterized by the red end of the visible spectrum), occurring when an object is moving away from the observer.

Blueshift

A shift towards shorter wavelengths (characterized by the blue end of the visible spectrum), occurring when an object is moving towards the observer.

Radial Motion

Motion towards or away, based on the perspective of the observer, which is the only type of motion given by the Doppler Effect.

Transverse Motion

Motion across your line-of-sight, based on the perspective of the observer.

Radial Velocity

The speed of an object moving towards or away from an observer, which can be measured using the Doppler shift, where faster motion leads to a greater shift.

Doppler Effect (Wave Type)

Affects all waves, including light and sound, not just light waves.

Astronomical Doppler Shift Detection

Astronomers detect Doppler shifts by observing the spectrum of light, noting that all characteristic lines are shifted in pattern but retain their relative positions, allowing determination of composition and radial speed.

Doppler Shift on Object Appearance

Does not typically change the apparent color of an object, as the shifting of wavelengths is usually too small to cause a noticeable change.