Shock waves in the solar system.

Abstract

Review of the role of gasdynamic processes involving shock waves in the transfer of solar material and energy to the earth and elsewhere in the solar system. The role of shock waves in maintaining the high temperature of the solar corona and in establishing the steady-state solar wind is discussed. An approximate hydromagnetic theory is developed to explain the flow of a supersonic solar wind past planets and the moon. Data concerning the passage of interplanetary shock waves and the ability of a solar flare to produce such a wave are reviewed, and some terrestrial consequences of solar activity are cited.