This short clip demonstrates how a sonic boom is produced. It is ideal for use as a lesson starter on sound and can be used at KS3/4. A physician explains that thunder and lightening occur at different times because light travels faster than sound. He then demonstrates how a sonic boom is produced, using a whip. A sonic boom occurs when something travels faster than sound. We see the whip being cracked using a slow motion camera. The questions for students to consider are: What is happening to the whip? What part of the whip is moving faster than the speed of sound? See the accompanying teachers' notes for a full explanation of the science underpinning the demonstration, plus suggested extension activities.

Video Series: Lesson Starters
Release Date 2009