How Does a Bullet's Momentum Determine the Force Stopping It in a Tree Trunk?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the force required to stop a bullet penetrating a tree trunk using momentum and energy principles. A 4.78 g bullet traveling at 510.8 m/s penetrates 4.93 cm into the trunk, resulting in a stopping force of approximately 32,870.75 N. The second part of the discussion addresses the time taken for the bullet to stop, utilizing the kinematic equation vf² = vi² + 2a. Participants emphasize the importance of accurate data input for calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts such as momentum and energy.
  • Familiarity with kinematic equations, specifically vf² = vi² + 2a.
  • Ability to perform calculations involving force, mass, and velocity.
  • Knowledge of unit conversions, particularly grams to kilograms and centimeters to meters.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of work-energy theorem in physics.
  • Learn about the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration in Newton's laws.
  • Explore advanced kinematic equations and their applications in real-world scenarios.
  • Investigate the effects of friction on motion and how to calculate frictional forces.
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in the mechanics of motion and energy transfer, particularly in the context of projectile impacts.

Ronaldo21
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Basic Momentum and Energy!

1. (part 1 of 2) A 4.78 g bullet moving at 510.8 m/s penetrates a tree trunk to a depth of 4.93 cm. a) Use work and energy considerations to find the magnitude of the force that stops the bullet.
Answer in units of N.

for this i did 1/2mv^2=w=fd
so 1/2(.00536)(681.8)^2=w=fd
1245.801323=fd
1245.801323=f(.0379)
and i solved for f and got 32870.74731

2. (part 2 of 2) b) Assuming that the frictional force is constant, determine how much time elapses between the moment the bullet enters the tree and the moment the bullets stops moving.
Answer in units of s.

for this one i just did vf^2=vi^2+2at. is that correct??

THANK YOU!
 
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The numbers in your solution to part one are not those in the question!
 

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