Abstract

Asymptotic Solutions of Sonic Boom Waveform Propagation in a Realistic Atmosphere

M.Johnson, P.Hammerton (School of Mathematics, University of East Anglia, Norwich, England, UK )

e-mail: M.Johnson@uea.ac.uk

Asymptotic solutions are sought for the governing non-linear equations of sonic boom waveform propagation through a homogeneous atmosphere. The equations take into account the physical effects of thermoviscosity and two relaxation modes associated with oxygen and nitrogen molecules. Plane and cylindrical effects are considered for the propogation of an initial N-wave. The asymptotic structure of the shocks are examined in detail and discussion is presented for the various physical mechanisms and their effect on the shape of the shock. Conditions for single-valued (known as fully dispersed) and multi-valued (known as partly dispersed) asymptotic solutions are given. Numerical analysis is also presented to verify the asymptotic predictions.

Section : 6