PASCO WA-9826 Doppler Rocket - Manual (Page 4)

Doppler Rocket Model No. WA-9826
4 ®
Introduction
The Doppler Rocket combines the excitement of a toy and an audio
Doppler shift to create an educational experience your students will
remember. The Doppler shift in sound waves is an interesting
phenomenon that we all experience in everyday life. Teaching about
the Doppler shift is not always easy to accommodate in the classroom.
As the Doppler Rocket passes the students, they will hear a noticeable
shift in the frequency. Not only is the Doppler Rocket designed to
effectively teach the frequency shift concept, but its rugged design will
provide years of use in the classroom.
The Doppler Rocket is designed to emit a true, sinusoidal sound
waveform at a constant frequency of approximately 620 Hz. The
circuit board and speaker are housed in skinned foam that will protect
the unit during normal impacts. The circuit is powered by a small 9V
battery that can be easily replaced.
Included with the Doppler Rocket are accessories for a variety of
activities, like swinging the rocket overhead, flying the rocket
horizontally, and playing catch.
Demonstrations and Activities with the
Doppler Rocket
a) Swinging the Doppler Rocket Overhead
Swinging the Doppler Rocket overhead
will allow students to hear the Doppler
shift as the sound source moves in a cir-
cular pattern. As the rocket moves
toward the students, the pitch will sound
higher. As the rocket recedes (moves
away from the students), the pitch will
sound lower.
1. Pass one length of rope through the
center of the unit and tie the rope
to itself. (Note: Be sure to use a reliable knot as the Doppler Rocket
will reach high velocities during this activity.)
Figure 1: Swinging
the Rocket Overhead