View Full Version : What is a shock wave from an explosion
 
 RachelP1
Mar 29, 2010, 04:25 PM
When a firework explodes 100 feet away I can see, then hear and then fell it.
I can explain the sight and the sound.
What happens to make me feel it?
 cdad
Mar 29, 2010, 05:52 PM
What you "feel" is called percussion.  Its from the rapid expansion of air surrounding the explosive device.  Sight ( speed of light ) is faster the sound ( speed of sound ) then comes percussion ( slowest ) .
 InfoJunkie4Life
Mar 30, 2010, 10:43 PM
You have p and s waves in an explosion.  Your p (Primary) waves are compression based, and thus form sound.  They are just minor disturbances traveling very fast.  The s (Secondary) wave is just a difference in air pressures, like wind.