Physics
Physics
Problem
A stationary observer receives sonic oscillations from two tuning forks one of which approaches and the other recedes with the same velocity. As this takes place, the observer hears the beats of frequency Hz. Find the velocity of each tuning fork if their oscillation frequency is Hz and the velocity of sound in air is m/s.Intuitive explanation
This problem combines the Doppler effect with beat frequency. When the two forks move toward and away from you at the same speed, their observed frequencies shift in opposite directions—one higher, one lower. The beat frequency you hear is simply the difference between these two observed frequencies, which gives you a direct way to find the fork velocity without needing to calculate each Doppler shift separately.
Intuitive explanation
This problem combines the Doppler effect with beat frequency. When the two forks move toward and away from you at the same speed, their observed frequencies shift in opposite directions—one higher, one lower. The beat frequency you hear is simply the difference between these two observed frequencies, which gives you a direct way to find the fork velocity without needing to calculate each Doppler shift separately.