Shock diamonds: supersonic heat nuggets
Shock diamonds: supersonic heat nuggets Shock diamonds, or Mach diamonds, are bright and dark patterns in the exhaust plume of supersonic rockets or jets, formed due to pressure differences between exhaust and atmospheric pressure. These patterns result from repeated compression and expansion cycles. Shock Diamonds Explained Definition Shock diamonds, also known as Mach diamonds, are alternating light and dark patterns visible in the exhaust plume of a rocket or jet engine operating at supersonic speeds. Formation Occurs when the exhaust pressure differs from the surrounding atmospheric pressure. Exhaust undergoes compression and expansion cycles as it equalizes with atmospheric pressure. These…