The Velocity Distribution on Symmetric Profiles with Local Supersonic Flow Regions

Abstract

The more the flight velocities approach that of sound, the less is it possible to avoid local supersonic velocities near the thickness maximum of the wing and body. The characteristics of sub- and supersonic flow are so fundamentally different that it makes the identification of the sonic velocity decisively important, both in the experimental determination of drag, lift and pressure-point-location as well as in calculation methods. The theoretical predominance of this transonic region of mixed sub- and supersonic flow gains, therefore, increasing importance.

Translated by J. HAAS from K. Oswatitsch, „Die Geschwindigkeitsverteilung an symmetrischen Profilen beim Auftreten lokaler Überschallgebiete“, Acta Physica Austriaca, 4 (1950), 228-271. Revised version published by permission of Lockheed-Georgia Company.