The American astronomer Hubble was able to show that the red shift of the light from stars, i.e., the lengthening of the wavelength, meant that stars were moving away from each other at enormous speeds. This led to the concept of the expanding universe, which is fundamental in our understanding of its history and nature. In Barcodes on the Air Dawkins explains the phenomenon of sound. Different wavelengths of sound produce a different pitch, as heard by the ear. But the ear can detect more than just pitch.
Musical instruments produce different harmonics.
Harmonics are made up of multiples of the fundamental frequency. It is possible, using the Fourier technique, to break down complex patterns into their basic sine wave patterns. He goes on to explain how other cycles in nature can be analysed and explained using such techniques. Dawkins explains that certain subgroups of people could share common patterns and that this must be taken into account when interpreting evidence based on DNA patterns. The book then moves on to oppose religious and non-rational thought.