The shock wave theory fundamentally deals with the origination factors, types and effects created by shock waves into different mediums (like solid, liquid and gaseous) or fields (like electromagnetic fields). According to the theory, shock waves are often produced by abrupt changes that occur by sudden inclusion or exclusion of energy forces within the systems. For instance, an earthquake or a meteor hitting an object is quite sufficient to produce shock waves within the structure of the object.
One significant advancement that shock wave theory has provided to the sciences is in the form of generalizations of different shock wave types and their origination. According to shock wave theory, shock waves can result from a striking material, a detonation, a rapidly moving object, sudden body compression and molecular compressions in liquids or gases. Further, shock waves can travel both in a linear and nonlinear fashion, which makes them unpredictable in their aftermaths.
Shock wave theory is applied in multiple fields and sciences. For instance, some major applications of shock wave theory are in avionics, aeronautics and astrophysics. Further, shock wave theory is also dealt with in geological and astronomical studies of earthly and heavenly bodies.