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Question 31278
JEE Physics · Hard

Sound Waves: Shock Wave MCQ

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Shock WaveHardQuestion 31278

Question

Crack of a rifle bullet (supersonic) is heard before the bang because:
  1. A
    Bullet reaches observer first
  2. B
    Shock wave (Mach wave) from bullet reaches observer before sound from muzzle
    Correct
  3. C
    Supersonic sound travels faster
  4. D
    Bullet compresses air more efficiently

Correct answer

Shock wave (Mach wave) from bullet reaches observer before sound from muzzle

Explanation

Supersonic bullet creates a Mach cone. The crack (N-wave shock) from the bullet passes the observer before the muzzle blast (which travels from behind). Hence crack is heard first.

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