Understand and quantify the crucial velocity ratio across a normal shock wave using our online calculator. Based on the fundamental Rankine-Hugoniot relations, this tool is vital for engineers and students studying fluid dynamics, gas flow, and high-speed aerodynamics. Simply input the upstream Mach number and the ratio of specific heats to instantly determine the downstream velocity relative to the upstream velocity, simplifying complex calculations for your projects.
Formula:
The velocity ratio (V2/V1) across a normal shock wave is determined by the following Rankine-Hugoniot relation:
V2 / V1 = [ M12(γ - 1) + 2 ] / [ M12(γ + 1) ]
Where:
V2: Downstream velocity across the shock wave (m/s)
V1: Upstream velocity approaching the shock wave (m/s)
M1: Upstream Mach Number (dimensionless, M1 ≥ 1 for a shock)
γ (gamma): Ratio of specific heats (dimensionless, e.g., 1.4 for air)