The dependence of the breakdown topology on the shock-vortex interaction co
nditions is numerically investigated. Based on solutions of the Euler equat
ions the unsteady three-dimensional flow field is studied at several freest
ream Mach numbers and for normal and oblique shocks. The results of the fin
ite-volume method using the AUSM approach indicate a strong dependence of t
he recirculation region downstream of the shock on the shock induced pressu
re gradient and on the vortex strength.