How to tell how far bullet went using sound

In summary, the person fires a rifle with a muzzle speed of 170 m/s at a target and hears the bullet strike 1.30 s later. The air temperature is 22.2°C (72°F). Using the speed of sound equation, Vc=331+(0.6*T), the speed of sound through dry air is calculated to be 344.32 m/s. The distance to the target can be found by setting the distance traveled by the bullet equal to the distance traveled by the sound, which is 170x+344.32(1.3-x)=D.
  • #1
Galahad43
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0

Homework Statement



A person holds a rifle horizontally and fires at a target. The bullet has a muzzle speed of 170 m/s, and the person hears the bullet strike the target 1.30 s after firing it. The air temperature is 72°F. What is the distance to the target?

Homework Equations


Vc=331+(0.6*T)
Vc= speed of sound through dry air (m/s)
T= temperature(Degrees C)



The Attempt at a Solution


Vc=331+(0.6*22.2)=344.32m/s
170x+344.32(1.3-x)=D
 
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  • #2
One more condition: the bullet has to travel exactly as far in getting to the target as the sound does in traveling back.
 
  • #3
Thank you. Got it
 

1. How does sound help determine the distance a bullet traveled?

Sound can be used to determine the distance a bullet traveled by measuring the time it takes for the sound of the bullet to reach the observer. The speed of sound is a known constant, so by calculating the time it takes for the sound to travel and multiplying it by the speed of sound, you can determine the distance the bullet traveled.

2. What factors can affect the accuracy of using sound to determine the distance a bullet traveled?

There are a few factors that can affect the accuracy of using sound to determine the distance a bullet traveled. These include the type of gun and bullet used, wind speed and direction, and any obstacles or terrain between the gun and the observer. Additionally, the accuracy of the measurement can also be affected by the precision of the equipment used and the skill of the person conducting the measurement.

3. Can sound be used to determine the distance a bullet traveled in all situations?

No, sound can only be used to determine the distance a bullet traveled in certain situations. For example, if the gun is fired in an open field with no obstructions, it is easier to accurately measure the time it takes for the sound to travel. However, if the gun is fired in a densely populated area with many buildings and other structures, the sound may bounce off these objects and make it more difficult to determine the distance.

4. How can the sound of the bullet be captured and measured?

The sound of the bullet can be captured and measured using specialized equipment such as a microphone or a ballistic chronograph. The microphone can be placed at a certain distance from the gun and will pick up the sound of the bullet as it travels. The ballistic chronograph is a device that is placed at a certain distance from the gun and uses sensors to measure the time it takes for the bullet to travel and the speed at which it is traveling.

5. What other methods can be used to determine the distance a bullet traveled?

Aside from using sound, there are other methods that can be used to determine the distance a bullet traveled. These include measuring the angle of the bullet's trajectory, analyzing the bullet's impact on a target, and using specialized lasers to calculate the distance. Each method has its own advantages and limitations, so it is important to consider the situation and use the most appropriate method for accurate results.

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