Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

Doppler effect

Noun

/ˈdɒplə ɛˈfɛkt/

Definition

The Doppler effect is the change in frequency or wavelength of a wave in relation to an observer who is moving relative to the wave source.

Examples

As the ambulance passed by, I noticed the change in the pitch of the siren due to the Doppler effect.
The redshift observed in distant galaxies is an application of the Doppler effect in astronomy.

Meaning

It refers to how the perceived frequency of sound, light, or other waves changes when the source of the waves is moving towards or away from an observer.