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Q:

Is a shock wave generated under the wings of a jet?

A:

When an aircraft approaches the speed of sound, the airflow over the wing reaches supersonic speed before the plane itself, and a shockwave forms ON the wing. When an airplane EXCEEDS the speed of sound, shock waves form just ahead of the leading edge of the wing.

Ask an Explainer
Posted on November 2, 2015 at 11:52 pm
Categories:
Aerodynamics
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