Shock wave

Definition

A shock wave is a type of propagating disturbance that moves faster than the local speed of sound in the medium. It is characterized by an abrupt, nearly discontinuous change in pressure, temperature, and density of the medium.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Shock waves are formed when an object travels through a medium at a speed greater than the speed of sound in that medium.
2. The Mach number is used to describe the ratio of the object's speed to the speed of sound in the medium.
3. Shock waves can cause significant changes in pressure, temperature, and density over very short distances.
4. There are two main types of shock waves: normal (perpendicular to flow) and oblique (at an angle to flow).
5. Shock waves are utilized in various applications including medical treatments (lithotripsy) and aerospace engineering.

Review Questions

• What conditions lead to the formation of a shock wave?
• How does a shock wave differ from ordinary sound waves?
• What role does the Mach number play in characterizing shock waves?

Related terms

Mach Number:

The ratio of the speed of an object moving through a fluid to the speed of sound in that fluid.

Supersonic:

Describes any speed that exceeds the local speed of sound.

Rarefaction Wave: A type of wave where particles move apart, leading to a decrease in pressure and density.