Chapter 25, Problem 20A

If you encounter a sonic boom, is that evidence that an aircraft just exceeded the speed of sound to become supersonic?

To determine

To explain: Whether the encounter of a sonic boom is an evidence that aircraft just exceeded the speed of sound to become supersonic.

Answer to Problem 20A

No, it is not.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

When an object exceeds the speed of sound to create a shock wave, then this shock wave listened by the listener is termed as a sonic boom.

When an aircraft exceeds the speed of sound then it produces shock waves behind. This shock wave travels with the speed of sound which is lesser compared to the speed of light. When the listener hears the shock wave or sonic boom, it might be at the position where the aircraft had been some time ago. It is likely possible that now when the observer sees the aircraft, it is not moving with the speed of sound. Thus, to keep moving in supersonic speed, aircraft must have to move with the speed greater than the speed of sound, no matter what time it is.

Conclusion:

Thus, aircraft exceeded the speed of sound to produce a sonic boom, which is not evidence that it is traveling now with the supersonic speed.