Question

A cruise missile under test is moving horizontally at Ma =2 in the atmosphere at an elevation of 2000 m (Air temperature is 2 °C). Determine the half-angle "alpha" of the Mach cone.

Answer 1

Answer: the half-angle "alpha" of the Mach cone = 30⁰

Explanation:

To calculate the  half-angle "alpha" of the Mach cone.

we say ;

Sin∝ = 1 / Ma

given that Ma = 2

now we substitute

Sin∝ = 1 / 2

Sin∝ = 0.5

∝ = Sin⁻¹ 0.5

∝ = 30⁰

Therefore, the half-angle "alpha" of the Mach cone is 30⁰