Numerical analysis of shock wave reflection transition in steady flows

Different aspects of the transition between regular and Mach reflections of strong shock waves in steady flows are numerically studied. Two approaches-kinetic (the direct simulation Monte Carlo method) and continuum (Euler equations)-are used to investigate the hysteresis phenomenon in the flow about two symmetrical wedges in two- and three-dimensional statements. The dependence of the final shock wave configuration on initial conditions, the transition from regular to Mach reflection by means of flow perturbations, and three-dimensional effects are examined. The three-dimensionality of the flow is shown to increase the angles of transition from regular to Mach reflection and back and to decrease the Mach stem height.