Supersonic Wave Drag
Supersonic wave drag, in the context of aviation, refers to the aerodynamic drag that is experienced by an aircraft as it travels at supersonic speeds, typically above Mach 1. This drag is caused by the formation of shock waves around the aircraft, which significantly increase the air pressure in front of the aircraft and decrease it behind, creating a force that opposes the aircraft's forward motion. The intensity of the wave drag depends on several factors, including the shape and size of the aircraft, its speed, and the altitude at which it is flying. Aircraft designed for supersonic flight, such as fighter jets and the Concorde, often feature a streamlined, needle-like shape to minimize wave drag. Despite these design efforts, supersonic wave drag remains a significant challenge in the field of aviation, as it greatly increases fuel consumption and limits the range of supersonic aircraft.
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