1. What is a Mach Angle Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the angle of the shock wave (Mach cone) created by an object moving at supersonic speeds.

Purpose: It helps aeronautical engineers, physicists, and aviation enthusiasts understand shock wave behavior at different Mach numbers.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( \theta \) — Mach cone angle (degrees)
• \( M \) — Mach number (speed relative to sound)

Explanation: As an object moves faster than sound (M > 1), it creates a conical shock wave. The angle of this cone decreases as speed increases.

3. Importance of Mach Angle Calculation

Details: Understanding Mach angles is crucial for aircraft design, sonic boom prediction, and analyzing supersonic flow patterns.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the Mach number (must be ≥ 1). The calculator will show the corresponding Mach cone angle in degrees.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why can't Mach number be less than 1?
A: Mach angles only exist for supersonic speeds (M ≥ 1). Below Mach 1, no shock wave forms.

Q2: What's a typical Mach angle for commercial jets?
A: Most jets fly subsonic (M < 1), but the Concorde flew at M≈2 (θ≈30°).

Q3: How does altitude affect Mach angle?
A: The angle depends only on Mach number, but sound speed (and thus true airspeed for a given M) changes with altitude.

Q4: What's the minimum possible Mach angle?
A: As M approaches infinity, θ approaches 0°. At M=1, θ=90°.

Q5: How is this related to sonic booms?
A: The Mach angle determines how "sharp" the shock wave is, affecting boom intensity on the ground.