Bullet Penetration: Kinetic Energy vs Momentum

  • Context: Undergrad 
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    Bullet Penetration
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on whether kinetic energy or momentum serves as a better indicator of bullet penetration, particularly in the context of hunting large game such as elephants. Participants explore various factors influencing penetration effectiveness, including bullet design, energy requirements, and the physics behind penetration mechanics.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question the validity of energy measurements in hunting articles, noting discrepancies in the units used and suggesting that other factors, such as bullet shape, significantly affect penetration.
  • Others argue that ft-lbf is an acceptable unit of energy in ballistics and propose that penetration effectiveness can be assessed through standardized ballistic testing, which considers bullet velocity and geometry.
  • A participant suggests that kinetic energy and momentum are fundamentally different and should not be considered interchangeable, emphasizing that both need to be understood in the context of penetration and damage.
  • There is a discussion about the relationship between kinetic energy, momentum, and the nature of impact, with some suggesting that force is the key factor in penetration rather than just energy or momentum alone.
  • Questions are raised about the specific differences in bullet design (e.g., ogive shapes) and how these might influence penetration capabilities despite differences in energy levels between cartridges.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the relevance of kinetic energy versus momentum for penetration, with no consensus reached. There are also disagreements regarding the interpretation of energy units and the factors that contribute to effective bullet penetration.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the discussion involves complex interactions between various physical principles, and that assumptions about bullet design and impact conditions may not be fully addressed. The conversation reflects a range of perspectives on how to quantify and understand bullet penetration.

  • #31
Mgt3 said:
I suppose you don't eat meat?

Of course I do. Best vegetable in the world.

The sport is unfair and as above.

I always enjoy watching or hearing of some hunter being killed, maimed, torn apart etc.
 
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  • #32
Lok said:
The sport is unfair and as above.

I always enjoy watching or hearing of some hunter being killed, maimed, torn apart etc.

You are ignorant.
 
  • #33
negitron said:
You are ignorant.

Yes I am.
 
  • #34
Was an answer decided upon?
 
  • #35
In my view it Force per unit Area that determines penetration. Thiner the bullet, more would be the penetration for same mass and speed.
 

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