What causes the snapping sound when a towel is snapped?

[jeff]

What causes the snapping sound when a towel is snapped? I'm hoping that no one here has seen this before. I already know the answer.

[HallsofIvy]

Then why ask? Is this just some stupid way of showing off?

(And why in the world should we believe you "already know" just because you say so?)

[jeff]

I didn't figure out the problem, someone just told it to me along with the answer so I'm not showing off. The reason I posted this question is that the answer turns out to be very interesting. If you want, I'll private message you the answer and you can tell me if you think it's worth posting.

[LURCH]

It's a small-scale sonic boom.

[jeff]

Originally posted by LURCH
It's a small-scale sonic boom.

Correct, as you already know. The version I heard involved a whip. I thought changing it to a towel would make it tougher. Oh well.

[On Radioactive Waves]

Okay, this thread wasn't too productuve. Anyone know who to make one of those "death whip towels"? Ouch!