Will the gun explode if I do this?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the potential consequences of firing a .45 ACP bullet underwater, specifically at a depth of 140 feet. Participants are exploring the implications of water pressure on the firearm and whether the type of bullet affects the outcome.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster questions the safety of firing a bullet underwater and seeks clarification on the effects of water pressure versus gunpowder pressure. Some participants inquire about the relevance of bullet shape and request calculations related to the scenario.

Discussion Status

Participants have provided differing views on the likelihood of the gun exploding, with some asserting it would not. There is an ongoing exploration of the factors involved, including water pressure and its comparison to gunpowder pressure, but no consensus has been reached.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a college class context, indicating that the discussion may be part of an academic inquiry. Participants are also considering the terminology used, such as "explode" versus "crack," which reflects a need for precision in language regarding the scenario.

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I have a couple of questions for the members of this great site. If I shoot a .45acp bullet with 230 grains in a 5" barrell in salt water at a depth of 140', will the gun explode? does the type of bullet makes any difference? for example flat head vs cone shaped? What would be the formula to calculate this? can ou post the whole calculation? This is for a college class group and someone asked this question. Please help. Thanks
 
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No, the gun would not explode - why would you think it would?
 


russ_watters said:
No, the gun would not explode - why would you think it would?


The reason some members of the group thought the gun would explode is because of the pressure the water would apply to the bulllet exiting from case or the barrel, not because of the gun powder. I guess exploding is not the correct term, but crack the metal is most appropriate.
 


The water pressure is trivial compared to the pressure of the gunpowder.
 


thanks for the replies. Is there some chart or something that shows why is negligeble
 

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