Moderate

When the source of sound moves away form a stationary listener then ______________ occurs?

Correct answer: B. an apparent decrease in frequency

  • A. an apparent increase in frequency
  • B. an apparent decrease in frequency
  • C. an apparent decrease in wavelength
  • D. no apparent change in frequency

Explanation

When a sound source moves away from a stationary listener, successive wavefronts reach the listener less frequently, so the observed frequency decreases. The wavelength in front of the source also increases, but the key observed effect is the lower frequency. The likely mistake is choosing an apparent increase in frequency, which occurs when the source approaches the listener.

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About Progressive Waves

Progressive waves transfer energy through a medium or space while particles oscillate about their equilibrium positions. The work includes amplitude, wavelength, frequency, period, phase difference, wave speed and the progressive wave equation, while distinguishing travelling waves from stationary waves, where the pattern has fixed nodes and antinodes.

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