If the distant star is receding from us, the spectral lines from such a star when examined on Earth will show:
Correct answer: B. A shift in frequency towards the red end
- A. No shift in frequency
- B. A shift in frequency towards the red end
- C. A shift in frequency towards the violet end
- D. Shift in frequency towards ultraviolet
Explanation
Recession causes wavelengths to be stretched (redshift), shifting spectral lines to longer wavelengths (red end). This is the cosmological/ Doppler effect signature of receding objects.
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About Waves
Progressive waves transfer energy through oscillations, with wavelength, frequency, amplitude and wave speed related by v = fλ; sound speed depends on the medium. Superposition produces interference and stationary waves in strings and organ pipes, while simple harmonic motion describes the oscillation itself and must be distinguished from wave propagation.
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