Supersonic Jet Speed Unit (4) - Crossword Clue
Answer: MACH
The crossword clue "Supersonic Jet Speed Unit (4)" typically refers to MACH, a four-letter measurement unit that describes the ratio of an object's speed to the speed of sound in the surrounding medium. This aviation and physics clue demonstrates how crossword constructors use scientific terminology to create educational puzzles, requiring solvers to understand that supersonic jet speed is measured using the Mach number scale developed by Austrian physicist Ernst Mach.
Understanding Mach Numbers
The supersonic jet speed unit known as MACH represents a dimensionless number expressing the ratio of an aircraft's speed to the speed of sound at the same atmospheric conditions. When a supersonic jet travels at Mach 1, it moves at exactly the speed of sound, while Mach 2 indicates twice the speed of sound, making it the standard measurement for describing high-speed flight performance.
Alternative Answers and Considerations
While MACH is the definitive answer for "Supersonic Jet Speed Unit (4)", other four-letter possibilities might theoretically include:
- KNOT - Four letters but measures nautical speed, not specifically supersonic
- MILE - Four letters but refers to distance, not speed units
- FOOT - Four letters but measures length, not velocity
- WARP - Four letters, fictional science fiction speed reference
Related Crossword Clues and Answers
Similar Speed and Measurement Clues
- "Nautical speed unit" → KNOT
- "Sound barrier speed" → MACH
- "Metric speed measure" → KPH
- "Highway speed unit" → MPH
Aviation and Flight Clues
- "Sound barrier" → SONIC
- "Jet engine intake" → NOZZLE
- "Aircraft elevation" → ALTITUDE
- "Pilot's concern" → WEATHER
Scientist Name Clues
- "Electrical unit eponym" → TESLA
- "Radioactivity unit namesake" → CURIE
- "Pressure unit scientist" → PASCAL
- "Energy unit physicist" → JOULE
Supersonic Jet Speed Unit (4) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q: Is MACH always the answer for "Supersonic Jet Speed Unit (4)"?
A: Yes, MACH is the standard four-letter unit specifically designed for measuring supersonic speeds, making it the definitive answer to this aerospace crossword clue.
Q: What does Mach 1 actually mean?
A: Mach 1 represents exactly the speed of sound in the surrounding medium, which varies with altitude and temperature but is approximately 767 mph at sea level in standard conditions.
Q: Why is it called a Mach number instead of Mach speed?
A: Mach is a dimensionless ratio comparing object speed to sound speed, not an absolute speed measurement, which is why it's called a "number" rather than a speed unit.
Q: Do all aircraft use Mach numbers for speed measurement?
A: No, most subsonic aircraft use airspeed indicators measuring knots or mph, while Mach numbers are primarily used for high-speed and supersonic flight applications.
