What is the Doppler effect for light? Derive the formula for the Doppler shift.

Vedclass pdf generator app on play store
Vedclass iOS app on app store
(N/A) The Doppler effect for light is the change in the observed frequency (or wavelength) of light due to the relative motion between the source of light and the observer.
When the source moves away from the observer,the wavefronts have to travel a greater distance,leading to a longer time interval between the arrival of successive wavefronts. This results in a decrease in the observed frequency and an increase in wavelength,known as 'red shift'.
When the source moves towards the observer,the wavefronts arrive at shorter intervals,leading to an increase in observed frequency and a decrease in wavelength,known as 'blue shift'.
For light,the Doppler shift formula is given by:
$\Delta \nu = -\nu \frac{v_{radial}}{c}$
where $\Delta \nu$ is the change in frequency,$\nu$ is the original frequency,$v_{radial}$ is the relative velocity of the source along the line of sight,and $c$ is the speed of light.
The fractional change in frequency is:
$\frac{\Delta \nu}{\nu} = -\frac{v_{radial}}{c}$

Explore More

Similar Questions

The apparent wavelength of light from a star moving away from the earth is $0.02 \%$ more than the actual wavelength. The velocity of the star is $[c = 3 \times 10^8 \ m/s]$. (in $km/s$)

Due to the Doppler effect,the shift in wavelength observed is $0.1\;\mathring{A}$,for a star producing a wavelength of $6000\;\mathring{A}$. The velocity of recession of the star will be ....... $km/s$.

When the wavelength of light coming from a distant star is measured,it is found to be shifted towards the red end of the spectrum. What is the conclusion?

If a star is moving towards the Earth,then the spectral lines are shifted towards:

$A$ heavenly body is receding from Earth such that the fractional change in wavelength $\lambda$ is $1$. What is its velocity?

Vedclass Products

For Students

Vedclass Test Series

Mock tests in real JEE/NEET style with performance analysis. 5-day free trial.

Start Free Trial
For Teachers

Exam Paper Generator

Generate Set A/B/C/D exam papers from 7.5L+ questions in 2 minutes. 3 chapters free.

Try Free
For Institutes

Online Exam Module

Live online exams with unlimited students, 360° analytics & white-label branding.

See Demo