Doppler shift The change in position of spectral lines due to the Doppler effect; named after Christian Andreas Doppler (1803-1853). If an object is approaching, its light is compressed and any lines in its spectrum appear at shorter wavelengths than if the object were at rest (see blue shift). If the object is receding, the opposite effect occurs and the spectral lines are shifted toward the longer wavelength or red end of the spectrum (see red shift). Related category • SPECTRA AND SPECTROSCOPY Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) |