1. What is a Mach to Velocity Calculator?

Definition: This calculator converts Mach number (a dimensionless quantity representing the ratio of flow velocity to the speed of sound) to velocity in meters per second.

Purpose: It helps aeronautical engineers, pilots, and physics students determine the actual velocity of an object moving through a medium based on its Mach number.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( V \) — Velocity (meters per second)
• \( M \) — Mach number (dimensionless)
• \( a \) — Speed of sound in the medium (meters per second)

Explanation: The Mach number is multiplied by the speed of sound in the given medium to obtain the actual velocity.

3. Importance of Mach to Velocity Conversion

Details: Understanding the actual velocity at different Mach numbers is crucial for aircraft design, flight operations, and understanding supersonic phenomena.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the Mach number and speed of sound (default 343 m/s for dry air at 20°C). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is Mach number?
A: Mach number is the ratio of an object's speed to the speed of sound in the surrounding medium.

Q2: Why does the speed of sound vary?
A: The speed of sound changes with temperature, altitude, and medium composition (air, water, etc.).

Q3: What's a typical speed of sound in air?
A: At sea level with 20°C temperature, it's approximately 343 m/s (1235 km/h or 767 mph).

Q4: How does Mach number relate to supersonic flight?
A: Mach 1 is the speed of sound. Mach < 1 is subsonic, Mach > 1 is supersonic, and Mach > 5 is hypersonic.

Q5: Can I use this for other mediums besides air?
A: Yes, but you must use the appropriate speed of sound for that medium (e.g., ~1482 m/s for water at 20°C).