Hypersonic vs. Supersonic: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sumera Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Updated on October 3, 2023
Hypersonic refers to speeds greater than Mach 5, while Supersonic denotes speeds exceeding Mach 1 but below Mach 5.
Key Differences
Hypersonic and Supersonic are terms primarily used in aerodynamics to describe specific speed ranges relative to the speed of sound. The speed of sound, referred to as Mach 1, is roughly 767 mph at sea level. Supersonic speeds are those that exceed Mach 1 but are less than Mach 5.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
On the other hand, Hypersonic speeds begin from Mach 5 and extend onwards. At these speeds, air molecules react differently, causing changes in air density, temperature, and pressure. Thus, Hypersonic travel brings about unique challenges in design, thermal management, and materials when compared to Supersonic travel.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Supersonic speeds, though faster than the speed of sound, are now somewhat routine in aviation, especially in military jets. Sonic booms, which are loud noises resulting from shock waves, are a characteristic phenomenon of Supersonic flight. Hypersonic speeds, however, remain a frontier in aviation, with very few aircraft or missiles capable of sustaining such speeds.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
In essence, while both Hypersonic and Supersonic pertain to high speeds, the former represents an extreme end of the spectrum. The technical and engineering challenges associated with Hypersonic travel are considerably more complex than those for Supersonic velocities.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Comparison Chart
ADVERTISEMENT
Hypersonic and Supersonic Definitions
Hypersonic
Pertaining to extreme aerodynamic heating.
Hypersonic speeds result in intense heat on an aircraft's surface.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 03, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Supersonic
Indicative of very fast or rapid actions.
His reflexes were Supersonic in the match.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Hypersonic
Relating to speeds of over Mach 5.
Researchers are testing new materials for Hypersonic flight.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 03, 2023
Supersonic
Relating to speeds between Mach 1 and Mach 5.
The fighter jet can achieve Supersonic speeds.
Janet White
Oct 03, 2023
Hypersonic
Denoting extremely rapid travel or projectiles.
The military developed a Hypersonic missile.
Janet White
Oct 03, 2023
Supersonic
Faster than the speed of sound.
Supersonic flight became feasible in the mid-20th century.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Hypersonic
Indicating the frontier realm of aviation speeds.
Hypersonic research could revolutionize air travel.
Harlon Moss
Oct 03, 2023
Supersonic
Having, caused by, or relating to a speed greater than the speed of sound in a given medium, especially air.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 11, 2022
Hypersonic
Concerned with the study of airflow at very high speeds.
He specialized in Hypersonic aerodynamics.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Supersonic
Of or relating to sound waves with a frequency above the range audible to the human ear; ultrasonic.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 11, 2022
Hypersonic
Of, relating to, or capable of speed equal to or exceeding five times the speed of sound.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 11, 2022
Supersonic
(of a speed) Greater than the speed of sound (in the same medium, and at the same temperature and pressure).
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 11, 2022
Hypersonic
Equal to, or greater than, or capable of achieving, five times the speed of sound.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 11, 2022
Hypersonic
Far enough above the speed of sound as to cause significant differences in behaviour due to chemical reactions or dissociation of the air.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 11, 2022
Hypersonic
Pertaining to or moving at a speed greatly in excess of the speed of sound, usually meaning greater than mach 5. All speeds in excess of the speed of sound are supersonic, but to be hypersonic requires even higher speed.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 11, 2022
Supersonic
Moving at a speed greater than the speed of sound in air; - this speed varies with altitude, since the speed of sound varies with altitude, as well as with temperature and humidity, being approximately 1129 feet per second at sea level and 984 feet per second at 16 miles altitude.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 11, 2022
Supersonic
Capable of moving at speeds higher than the speed of sound; - of aircraft.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 11, 2022
Supersonic
(of speed) greater than the speed of sound in a given medium (especially air);
A supersonic bomber flies so fast that it must release its bombs while the target is still over the horizon
Aircraft flying at subsonic speeds
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 11, 2022
Supersonic
Pertaining to or denoting sound waves with a frequency above human audibility.
Bats use Supersonic frequencies for echolocation.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 03, 2023
Supersonic
Concerned with the aerodynamics of faster-than-sound speeds.
Engineers overcame many Supersonic challenges with the Concorde.
Sara Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
FAQs
Are all military jets Supersonic?
While many are, not all military jets are designed for Supersonic flight.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 03, 2023
Why is Hypersonic flight challenging?
Hypersonic flight faces issues like extreme aerodynamic heating and air molecule reactions.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
At what speed range is Supersonic flight?
Supersonic flight ranges from speeds above Mach 1 to below Mach 5.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Is commercial Hypersonic travel feasible?
Currently, it's mainly experimental, but there are hopes for future commercial Hypersonic travel.
Harlon Moss
Oct 03, 2023
What is the threshold for Hypersonic speeds?
Hypersonic speeds start from Mach 5 and above.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
What are the applications of Hypersonic speeds?
They are mainly for experimental aircraft and high-speed missiles.
Sara Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
What causes the sonic boom in Supersonic flight?
It's caused by shock waves created when an object travels through the air faster than the speed of sound.
Harlon Moss
Oct 03, 2023
Did the Concorde fly at Hypersonic speeds?
No, the Concorde flew at Supersonic speeds.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
What challenges do Supersonic flights face?
Challenges include sonic booms, fuel efficiency, and specific aerodynamic considerations.
Harlon Moss
Oct 03, 2023
Why aren't commercial flights typically Supersonic?
Factors include noise restrictions, fuel efficiency, and operational costs.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Are Hypersonic flights louder than Supersonic?
Both can produce intense noise, but the nature of the noise and its challenges vary.
Sara Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
What is the future of Hypersonic research?
The goal is to achieve efficient, safe, and commercial Hypersonic travel.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 03, 2023
Are Hypersonic missiles in active use?
Some countries have developed and tested Hypersonic missiles, but their deployment is limited.
Harlon Moss
Oct 03, 2023
Why is heat a challenge for Hypersonic travel?
At Hypersonic speeds, the friction with the atmosphere results in extreme heating.
Janet White
Oct 03, 2023
Are sonic booms dangerous?
While loud and potentially disruptive, they aren't typically dangerous to structures or people on the ground.
Harlon Moss
Oct 03, 2023
How do pilots handle Hypersonic speeds?
Hypersonic flights often require automated systems due to the speeds and reactions needed.
Sara Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
Are there any materials ideal for Hypersonic speeds?
Research is ongoing, but materials must withstand extreme heat and pressure.
Harlon Moss
Oct 03, 2023
Can Supersonic planes travel Hypersonically?
Typically, no. Supersonic planes aren't designed for the challenges of Hypersonic speeds.
Janet White
Oct 03, 2023
Is there a term for speeds below the speed of sound?
Yes, it's called "subsonic."
Harlon Moss
Oct 03, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
