Enthalpy behind the wave () refers to the total energy content per unit mass of a fluid flow in the region behind a shock wave. In fluid dynamics, a shock wave is a discontinuity that occurs when a compressible flow encounters a sudden and rapid change in conditions, such as a change in pressure, density, and velocity. Behind a shock wave, the fluid properties can change significantly, including its temperature and pressure.
- : Enthalpy of the fluid behind a shock wave (in joules per kilogram, J/kg).
- : Specific heat capacity at constant pressure (in joules per kilogram per kelvin, J/(kg·K)).
- : Temperature of the fluid behind the shock wave (in kelvin, K).