What are sonic booms?

Explanation

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Definition of Sonic Booms**: Sonic booms are defined as the sound associated with shock waves created by an object traveling through the air at a speed faster than the speed of sound.

2. **Formation of Sonic Booms**: These sounds occur when an object, such as an aircraft or a bullet, moves through the air at supersonic speeds. The rapid movement compresses air molecules, leading to the formation of shock waves.

3. **Characteristics of Sonic Booms**: Sonic booms generate an enormous amount of sound energy, often likened to the sound of an explosion. This is due to the intense pressure changes that occur as the object breaks the sound barrier.

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