The End Of A Cracking Whip Is Not What Breaks The Sound Barrier

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The sound and speed of a cracking whip is impressive, but also a fascinating feat of science. A bullwhip can snap so fast, it actually breaks the sound barrier. Maybe you already knew that. But do you know which part of the whip breaks that barrier? Surprisingly, it's not the cracker at the end. See it in slow-motion in the video below.