oblique shock wave

oblique shock wave

[ə′blēk ′shäk ‚wāv] (fluid mechanics) A shock wave inclined at an oblique angle to the direction of flow in a supersonic flow field. Also known as oblique shock.

oblique shock wave

A shock wave that forms on a sharp-pointed object moving through the air at a speed greater than the speed of sound. Air passing through an oblique shock wave is slowed down but if the wave angle is less than about 70°, it still will be supersonic. The area bounded by the sides of an oblique shock wave forms the Mach cone. Also known as an oblique shock. See also Mach cone.