Shock wave structure in simple liquids

The shock wave structure in a liquid is studied by a molecular dynamics simulation method. The interaction between atoms is described by the Lennard-Jones (6–12) potential. In contrast to earlier works, the simulation is performed in a reference frame tied to the shock wave front. This approach reduces non-physical fluctuations and makes it possible to calculate the distribution functions of the kinetic and potential energy for several cross sections within the shock layer. The profiles of flow variables and their fluctuations are found. The surface tension connected with pressure anisotropy within the shock front is calculated. It is shown that the main contribution to the surface tension coefficient comes from the mean virial.