Shock Wave Front: How Does Source Movement Create Waves?

In summary, when a source is not vibrating, it is not creating waves due to vibration. However, it is still causing disturbance in the medium because it is moving. According to Doppler's effect, if the source is moving faster than the speed of sound, a shock wave is created. This is because the source is always ahead of the sound wave it produces, causing a region where waves superimpose behind it. Sketching the moving plane and wave fronts can help visualize this concept. The term "Sonic Boom" can also be used to describe this phenomenon.
  • #1
tina21
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Homework Statement
When a vibrating source moves through a medium with speed V, speed of propagation of wave is v. A conical wavefront is set up independent of time. What happens when the source is not vibrating?
Relevant Equations
Sin(theta) = v/V
So when the source is not vibrating, it is not setting waves due to vibration? But it is moving so it is still causing disturbance in the medium ... And I happened to read that if the source is moving faster than the speed of sound, a shock wave is set up. How ?
 
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  • #2
Read about Doppler's effect; the shock wave is there because the source is always ahead of the sound wave it creates; behind the source, there will be a region where waves superimpose; sketch the moving plane, sketch few wave fronts and you will see how they combine. Look up Sonic Bum.
 
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Likes tina21
  • #3
I understand now. Thank you so much :smile:
 
The Shock Wave Front: How Does Source Movement Create Waves?

1. What is a shock wave front?

A shock wave front is a type of wave that forms when a source moves faster than the speed of sound in a medium.

2. How is a shock wave front created?

A shock wave front is created when a source moves faster than the speed of sound in a medium, causing the surrounding air or other medium to be compressed and form a high-pressure wave front.

3. What factors affect the formation of a shock wave front?

The formation of a shock wave front is affected by the speed of the source, the properties of the medium, and the angle of the source's movement relative to the medium.

4. What happens to the medium when a shock wave front passes through it?

When a shock wave front passes through a medium, the air molecules are compressed and then rapidly expand, creating a sudden change in pressure and temperature. This can cause damage to structures and produce a loud noise.

5. How do shock wave fronts impact different mediums?

Shock wave fronts can have different effects on different mediums. In air, they can cause loud noises and damage to structures. In water, they can create powerful pressure waves that can damage ships and marine life. In solids, they can cause fractures and other structural damage.

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