Shooting a bullet up into the air

In summary, shooting a bullet up into the air is a dangerous and potentially deadly act. The bullet can reach high altitudes and then fall back to the ground at a high velocity, posing a serious threat to people and property below. Additionally, the trajectory of the bullet cannot be accurately predicted, making it difficult to ensure the safety of others. Therefore, it is important to never shoot a bullet into the air and to follow proper gun safety measures at all times.
  • #1
Towk667
17
0
Given that there is no wind, if you shoot a bullet straight up, when it comes back down will it be going fast enough to kill someone? I know it won't be going as fast as it was leaving the barrel of the gun because of air resistance on its trip back down, but I'm just wondering if it would still be dangerous.
 
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  • #2
Try:
http://lmgtfy.com/?q=terminal+velocity+bullet

From:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terminal_velocity#Examples:
Higher speeds can be attained if the skydiver pulls in his or her limbs (see also freeflying). In this case, the terminal velocity increases to about 320 km/h (200 mph or 90 m/s),[2] which is also the terminal velocity of the peregrine falcon diving down on its prey.[3] And the same terminal velocity is reached for a typical 150 grain bullet traveling in the downward vertical direction — when it is returning to Earth having been fired upwards, or perhaps just dropped from a tower — according to a 1920 U.S. Army Ordnance study.[4]

Also:
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=14560
 
  • #3
Thanks:approve:
 

1. What factors affect how high a bullet will go when shot into the air?

The height a bullet can reach when shot into the air is influenced by the initial velocity of the bullet, the angle at which it is shot, and the effects of air resistance. The higher the initial velocity and the steeper the angle, the higher the bullet will go. However, air resistance will eventually slow the bullet down and limit its maximum height.

2. Can a bullet shot into the air kill someone when it falls back down?

Yes, a bullet shot into the air can still retain enough velocity to cause injury or even death when it falls back down. This is known as a "stray bullet" and can happen if the bullet is shot at a high angle or with a powerful weapon. It is important to always shoot firearms in a safe and responsible manner to prevent harm to others.

3. How long does it take for a bullet to reach its maximum height when shot into the air?

The time it takes for a bullet to reach its maximum height when shot into the air depends on its initial velocity and the angle at which it is shot. On average, it takes a few seconds for a bullet to reach its apex and start falling back down. However, this time can vary depending on the specific conditions of the shot.

4. What happens to a bullet when it reaches its maximum height and starts falling back down?

When a bullet reaches its maximum height, it starts to fall back down due to the force of gravity. As it falls, its velocity decreases due to air resistance. Once it reaches the ground, it will have a much lower velocity compared to when it was shot into the air. However, depending on the initial velocity and angle, it can still cause harm or damage upon impact.

5. Is it safe to shoot a bullet into the air if there is no one around?

No, it is never safe to shoot a bullet into the air. Even if there is no one around, the bullet can still travel a great distance and cause harm to someone or something. It is also important to consider the potential for the bullet to come back down and potentially hit someone or something. It is always best to shoot firearms in a controlled and designated area to ensure safety for yourself and others.

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