If the source of sound moves at the same speed or faster than speed of the wave then it results ina)Doppler effectb)Beatsc)Shock wavesd)Refraction of soundCorrect answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Question

Answer

The Doppler Effect is observed whenever the speed of the source is moving slower than the speed of waves. But if the source actually moves at the same speed as or faster than the waves, a different phenomenon is observed. This phenomenon is known as Shock waves or Sonic Booms.

Answer

The Doppler effect is observed whenever the speed of the source is moving slower than the speed of waves. But if the source actually moves at the same speed as or faster than the waves itself can move, a different phenomenon is observed. This phenomenon is Known as Shock waves or Sonic Booms.
Therefore, option 'C' is the correct answer.

Answer

Understanding Shock Waves
When a source of sound moves at the same speed or faster than the speed of sound in a given medium, it creates a phenomenon known as shock waves. This occurs due to the compression of sound waves, resulting in a sudden change in pressure.
What Happens When the Source Moves?
- Speed of Sound: The speed of sound in air at room temperature is approximately 343 meters per second.
- Movement of Source: If the source of sound, like a jet or a sonic boom, travels at or above this speed, it cannot keep up with the sound waves it generates.
Formation of Shock Waves
- Wave Compression: As the source moves faster than sound, the sound waves pile up and compress, creating a shock wave.
- Cone Shape: This results in a conical shape of waves, known as a 'Mach cone,' which emerges behind the moving object.
Characteristics of Shock Waves
- Sudden Pressure Change: Shock waves are characterized by a rapid increase in pressure followed by a decrease, which can create a loud noise known as a sonic boom.
- Impact: These waves can have significant effects on the environment and structures, due to their high energy and pressure.
Difference from Other Phenomena
- Doppler Effect: This occurs when the source moves relative to an observer, causing a shift in frequency, but does not involve supersonic speeds.
- Beats: Beats arise from the interference of two sound waves of slightly different frequencies.
- Refraction: Refraction involves the bending of sound waves when they pass through different media but does not relate to the speed of the source.
In summary, when the sound source moves at or faster than the speed of sound, shock waves are produced, resulting in unique acoustic phenomena like sonic booms.

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