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Vibrational relaxation effects in weak shock waves in air and the structure of sonic bangs

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 March 2006

J. P. Hodgson
Affiliation:
Department of the Mechanics of Fluids, University of Manchester

Abstract

Vibrational relaxation of oxygen and nitrogen is shown to be important in determining the structure of weak shock waves in air. Of particular interest are waves with pressure jumps of 100Pa1 Pa ≡ 1 pascal = 1 N m−2. or less which are present in the atmosphere as sonic bangs. It is found that the structure of the waves depends on shock strength, ambient pressure, temperature and humidity.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
© 1973 Cambridge University Press

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References

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