Speed of Cars with the Doppler Effect

In summary, the problem involves two cars moving away from each other at the same speed. One car emits a horn with a frequency of 185 Hz and the other car hears a frequency of 173 Hz. Using the Doppler Effect equation, 173 = 185 (v-vobs)/(v-vsource), the speed of the cars can be calculated, but further steps are needed to solve the problem.
  • #1
Azndoode1
11
0

Homework Statement



Two cars traveling with the same speed move directly away from one another. One car sounds a horn whose frequency is 185 Hz and a person in the other car hears a frequency of 173 Hz. What is the speed of the cars?


Homework Equations



The Doppler Effect.

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm not quite sure how to set up a Doppler Effect problem...

Perhaps F(observer) = F(source) (v-vobs)/(v-vsource) ?
 
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  • #2
Where v = speed of the cars, vobs = speed of the observer, and vsource = speed of the source. Therefore, 173 = 185 (v-vobs)/(v-vsource) ? I'm not sure how to continue from here. Any help would be greatly appreciated!
 

Related to Speed of Cars with the Doppler Effect

1. What is the Doppler Effect?

The Doppler Effect is a phenomenon where the observed frequency of a wave, such as sound or light, is affected by the relative motion between the source of the wave and the observer. This results in a perceived change in frequency, pitch, or color.

2. How does the Doppler Effect work?

The Doppler Effect works by altering the wavelength of a wave based on the relative motion between the source and observer. If the source is moving closer to the observer, the wavelength appears shorter and the frequency appears higher. If the source is moving away from the observer, the wavelength appears longer and the frequency appears lower.

3. What are some real-life examples of the Doppler Effect?

The Doppler Effect can be observed in various situations, such as the change in pitch of a car horn as it passes by, the change in frequency of a siren on an emergency vehicle as it approaches and then passes by, and the redshift of light from distant galaxies due to their motion away from us.

4. How is the Doppler Effect used in science?

The Doppler Effect has many applications in science, including in astronomy to study the motion of celestial objects, in meteorology to track the movement of storms, and in medicine to measure blood flow and detect abnormalities. It is also used in everyday technology, such as radar and sonar systems.

5. Are there any limitations to the Doppler Effect?

Yes, there are limitations to the Doppler Effect. It only applies to waves that are traveling through a medium, such as air or water. It also assumes that the medium and the source of the wave are moving at a constant speed and in a straight line. Additionally, it does not take into account any effects of the medium, such as wind or temperature, that may alter the perceived frequency of the wave.

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