A source of sound moves towards a stationary observer. The observer detects a frequency that is

Answer and explanation

Correct answer: D. higher than the frequency emitted by the source

  1. Step 1: Waves in front of a moving source are compressed, so the observer hears a higher frequency.
Answer
higher than the frequency emitted by the source.
Why not the others: lower than the frequency emitted by the source: this happens when the source moves away from the observer. equal to the frequency emitted by the source: relative motion changes the observed frequency (Doppler effect). higher, with a faster speed of sound: the speed of sound in air stays the same; the wavelength is compressed.

Practise more Waves, light and matter.

Free questions with an explanation for every one, and full timed South Africa Matric mock tests.