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Mach Angle Formula:
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The Mach angle (μ) is the angle between the direction of motion of a supersonic object and the Mach wave (shock wave) it creates. It is a fundamental concept in supersonic and hypersonic aerodynamics that describes how shock waves propagate from objects moving faster than the speed of sound.
The calculator uses the Mach angle formula:
Where:
Explanation: As an object moves faster (higher Mach number), the Mach angle becomes smaller, creating a narrower cone of shock waves behind the object.
Details: Mach angle calculation is crucial for aircraft design, sonic boom prediction, understanding shock wave patterns, and analyzing supersonic flow behavior around objects. It helps engineers design more efficient supersonic vehicles and predict their acoustic impact.
Tips: Enter the Mach number (must be greater than 1 for supersonic flow). The calculator will compute the corresponding Mach angle in degrees.
Q1: Why must Mach number be greater than 1?
A: Mach angle only exists for supersonic flow (Mach > 1). Subsonic flow (Mach < 1) doesn't produce shock waves that form the Mach cone.
Q2: What happens at exactly Mach 1?
A: At Mach 1 (sonic speed), the Mach angle would theoretically be 90 degrees, but in reality, the flow characteristics change dramatically at transonic speeds.
Q3: How does Mach angle affect sonic boom?
A: Smaller Mach angles (higher speeds) create more focused shock waves that can result in more intense sonic booms on the ground.
Q4: Can Mach angle be measured in flight?
A: Yes, through schlieren photography or pressure measurements that visualize the shock wave patterns around supersonic aircraft.
Q5: What's the relationship between Mach angle and cone angle?
A: The Mach cone half-angle is equal to the Mach angle. The full cone angle is twice the Mach angle.