Mach Cone Analysis

Supersonic Physics Case Study

JET-L101

NAME:

SECTION:

01

Defining Supersonic Speeds

Calculate the Mach number for the following aircraft. Show your work in the space provided. (Assume \( v_{sound} = 340 \text{ m/s} \))

A. F-22 Raptor

Speed: 680 m/s

M = ___________

B. Concorde (Retired)

Speed: 602 m/s

M = ___________

02

The Shock Wave Angle

The half-angle of the Mach cone (\( \theta \)) is related to the Mach number by the equation:

\[ \sin \theta = \frac{1}{M} \]

1. If a jet travels at Mach 2.0, calculate the angle \( \theta \) of the Mach cone.

2. Sketch the Mach cone for Mach 1.5 vs Mach 3.0 below. Labels are mandatory.

Mach 1.5 Diagram

Mach 3.0 Diagram

03

Acoustic Analysis

Case Study: The "Boom" Timing

An observer on the ground hears a sonic boom exactly 10 seconds after a supersonic jet passes directly overhead. Explain why there is a delay between the visual pass and the audible boom. Use the concept of the Mach cone in your explanation.

Mach Cone Analysis Worksheet

Mach Cone Analysis Worksheet