Shock-wave structure according to a linear irreversible thermodynamic model.

In this work we present a phenomenological model to look for a better understanding of the shock-wave structure in dilute monatomic gases. The model is based on the principles of linear irreversible thermodynamics, where we have been aware of the flow anisotropy caused by the shock-wave propagation. Then a new coupling appears between the stress tensor and the heat flux. The comparisons with the experimental data available for argon as well as the direct simulation Monte Carlo method calculations are done and shown to support our proposal.