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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.