Mechanics: Sonic Boom And Pressure Waves

1. Visual Phenomenon (Top):
– Shockwaves form when an aircraft breaks the sound barrier.
– Creates a visible cloud (condensation effect) due to sudden pressure drop.

2. Pressure Wave Stages (Bottom):
– Stopped: Air pressure waves spread evenly in all directions.
– Subsonic: Waves compress in the direction of motion.
– Speed of Sound: Waves merge at the nose, creating a sharp wavefront.
– Supersonic: Shock cone forms; creates a sonic boom.

Key Insight:
Supersonic speed compresses pressure waves into a cone-shaped shockwave, resulting in a loud “boom.”