Sonic-speed refers to a velocity equal to the speed of sound in a given medium, often air, or a speed exceeding the speed of sound, described as supersonic. It is primarily used to describe the movement of objects, primarily aircraft, projectiles, and, in certain contexts, information transmission, or processes. The term emphasizes a swift and powerful movement, often associated with breaking the sound barrier. Objects traveling at sonic-speed generate sound waves, often experienced as a sonic boom when crossing this threshold. It's a significant benchmark in physics and engineering, representing a critical juncture for aerodynamic design and control.
Sonic-speed meaning with examples
- The experimental jet accelerated past the speed of sound, reaching sonic-speed and generating a deafening sonic boom that rattled windows miles away. The test pilots were assessing the airframe's stability at these extreme velocities.
- The advanced missile system could strike targets at sonic-speed, making interception exceedingly difficult for defensive systems. Its rapid deployment capability would ensure swift and decisive responses to potential threats.
- Scientists study the behavior of air at sonic-speed, utilizing wind tunnels to simulate supersonic flight conditions. This allows them to refine designs and mitigate the effects of aerodynamic drag at such velocities.
- Data transmission networks, once relying on analog methods, now transmit information at effectively sonic-speed due to the digital signal encoding and high-speed data transfer, enabling instant communication.
- The shockwave generated as the spacecraft re-entered the Earth's atmosphere at near sonic-speed caused significant heat and structural stress on its protective shielding. Engineers constantly refine designs to reduce this.