Why do fast objects cause more damage?

Hameeedo

You still didn't delve into the vital question .. What is the difference between a slow atom and a fast atom that gives the fast one the ability to shatter another material?

I know about kinetic energy and such ,However I am asking about the variable that changed microscopically at the particle/atom level as a result of high speed .. Is it electron momentum ? charge magnitude ? something else ?

e.chaniotakis

the answer to your question is momentum.

0xDEADBEEF

Microscopic level and macroscopic level make no difference here, it is momentum or kinetic energy or speed, and it is applied to a small enough area to break enough bonds. But the whole bullet is pushing its front atoms into the material it is not a few electrons in front that have new powers now.

Hameeedo

I know that , I was just simplifying the concept to make the discussion more accessible .
Thank you guys very much , this was an enjoyable thinking exercise , and you've been a great help. :)

e.chaniotakis

Anytime..