Magnitude of bullet fired into gel

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    Bullet Magnitude
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the magnitude of the bullet's deceleration when a rifle bullet with a muzzle speed of 330 m/s is fired into a dense material that stops it over a distance of 25.0 cm. The key equation of motion used is v² = u² + 2as, where the initial speed (u) is 330 m/s, the final speed (v) is 0 m/s, and the distance (s) is 0.25 m. The resulting calculation yields a negative acceleration, indicating that the deceleration opposes the bullet's initial motion.

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  • Understanding of kinematic equations, specifically v² = u² + 2as
  • Basic knowledge of physics concepts such as acceleration and deceleration
  • Familiarity with units of measurement, particularly meters and seconds
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic equations for solving for unknowns
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  • Study the derivation and application of kinematic equations in physics
  • Learn about the concepts of force and mass in relation to Newton's second law
  • Explore real-world applications of deceleration in various materials
  • Investigate the effects of different bullet types and materials on stopping distances
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Homework Statement


A rifle bullet with a muzzle speed of 330 m/s is fired directly into a special dense material that stops the bullet in 25.0 cm. Assuming the bullet's deceleration to be constant, what is its magnitude?

x=25.0cm
V=330 m/s

Homework Equations



?

The Attempt at a Solution



I don't fully understand the problem, to me it sounds like they want the magnitude of force exerted on the bullet in the opposite direction it was fired? I'm really confused.

Thanks
 
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No, they are looking for the magnitude of the bullet's acceleration (deceleration).
 
The initial speed, u, is 330m/s, the final speed, v is 0 m/s since the bullet comes to rest. The bullet travels a distance, s of 0.25m.

The equation of motion v^2=u^2 +2as should be of help.

Note that this will give you a negative acceleration which is to be expected as it is opposing the direction of motion.
 

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