Shock waves occur when
A) the frequency of the waves is the resonant frequency of the system.
B) the amplitude of waves exceeds the critical shock value.
C) two waves from different sources collide with each other.
D) the wave source is traveling at a speed greater than the wave speed.
E) the period of the waves matches the lifetime of the waves.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Shock waves occur when the source of the waves moves faster than the speed of the waves in the medium, causing the waves to compress and form a shock wave. This is commonly observed with sound waves, resulting in a sonic boom when an object moves faster than the speed of sound.

Shock Waves Occur When