Supersonic speed refers to any speed that exceeds the speed of sound, which is approximately 343 meters per second (1,125 feet per second) at sea level. This speed is commonly associated with aircraft, such as the Concorde, which was capable of flying faster than sound, allowing it to travel long distances in shorter times. When an object travels at supersonic speeds, it creates shock waves, resulting in a phenomenon known as a sonic boom. This occurs when the pressure waves produced by the object compress and then release, creating a loud noise. Supersonic speeds are significant in both military and commercial aviation, as well as in certain scientific applications.