A sonic boom sound vs explosion sound

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SUMMARY

A sonic boom and an explosion sound share similarities primarily due to the nature of the compression waves they produce. High explosives, such as plastique, create a sharp "crack" because they expand faster than the speed of sound, similar to a sonic boom. In contrast, lower-energy explosions, like those from a Bick lighter or aerosol can, generate a rumbling noise. Understanding these differences is crucial for analyzing sound characteristics in various explosive scenarios.

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  • Understanding of sound wave propagation
  • Knowledge of explosive materials and their classifications
  • Familiarity with the physics of compression waves
  • Basic principles of acoustics
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  • Research the physics behind sonic booms and their characteristics
  • Study the properties of different explosive materials, focusing on high explosives
  • Explore the impact of sound wave speed on auditory perception
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Acoustics researchers, explosive material specialists, sound engineers, and anyone interested in the physics of sound and explosions.

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sonic boom??

A sonic boom sounds much like an explosion correct? Explain the similarity between the two??
 
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The similarity between the two depends largely on the type of explosive being used. A Bick lighter or aerosol can cooking off in a fire makes a rumbling kind of noise, while high explosives such as plastique, have a much more staccato "crack." This is because high explosives, by definition, employ a reaction that expands faster than the speed of sound.

It is this quality that makes a sonic boom sound similar to a blast from high explosives. Each is a compression wave caused by air trying to move faster than the speed of sound.
 

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