Normal shock waves [Aerodynamics #18] 

In this lecture, we discuss the basics of shock waves and then focus on the normal shock wave, an idealized 1D case. When you go faster than the speed of sound, pressure disturbances induce shock waves. These are barriers that cause the flow to dramatically change condition, reducing the flow velocity but increasing the pressure, temperature, and density. The temperature and pressure downstream of a shock can get super-high, and that dominates the design and flight profile of high-speed aircraft.
Free downloadable notes (PDF with white background) can be found at my website: sites.udel.edu/vanburen/educa...