Re: Buoyant Bullets

[brian whatcott <inet@intellisys.net>]

At 21:13 10/30/97 -0400, you wrote:
> Perhaps I did not make it clear, Brian. I was referring to a bullet fired
> horizontally, not vertically down. The vertical component  of is so small
> (component of v) that the effect of vertical air resistance is negligible.
> Perhaps the term LIFT, usually associated with wings, is not appropriate
> for the upword force due to a very large horizontal air resistance (as.
> reported by John).
>                                          Ludwik Kowalski
It is a common-place of ballistics that a well-spun shell by holding 
its attitude near to its initial elevation develops lift as it drops.

 It is also well known that the general run of say - pistol bullets nutate
markedly about their flight axis and do not develop lift in the same way.

 But let's take a look at the situation you cite: a bullet launched 
horizontally will certainly drop. This can provide a positive angle of 
attack. If there is a considerable drag, some fraction of this is disposed
vertically, AND there can also be (real) lift force available.

John did NOT report lift due to a horizontal drag force (or if he did,
he doubtless regrets it.) I recall he mentioned there must be at least a 
small vertical component.

Sincerely,

brian whatcott <inet@intellisys.net>
Altus OK