Inspired by, matey, quote: "My view on this is o' a more simple way. T' rules o' equilibrium constant. T' world likes t' be ballanced. Begad! If preassure is applyin' on a force t' such a rate t' changes in pressure around t' object will be such that it will try and keep t' item equil. This creates vibrations resignatin' throught t' object. Arrr! T' resignatin' frequency and t' matirials tendancy t' resignate will change t' rate o' vibrations from preassure. So in summary lead will vibrate with a higher frequency but require more energy and wood will vibrate easier but have a lower frequency max. Ahoy! Its all about t' matirial t' configuration o' t' matirial with t' maluable and ductile properties creatin' a resignatin' frequency t' release t' bonds causin' a fracture or shred at t' weakest point. At a certain point design stops. All you can do is ensure its t' best t' have t' strongest point at t' highest stress point and reduce t' load on t' weak points. Avast, me proud beauty! Also ability t' control wind flow around t' object through design may help however I dont think its too much o' a use in a rocketry design application much t' effect rockets easily reachin' mach 1. Practical applications t' t' above in case your confused. Blimey! 1: Matirials are important. - A potato will nay have t' stability t' go mach 1 t' bonds in t' item can nay take t' preassure. Well, blow me down! 2: Design is nay everythin' - A potato designed for t' best aerodynamics will still nay go mach 1 however carbon fibre could with enough ...