Do Bullets Travel Faster Than the Speed Of Sound?

Are you planning a trip to Vietnam and wondering about the science behind everyday phenomena? At SIXT.VN, we not only provide seamless travel solutions but also offer intriguing insights into the world around us. Yes, bullets typically travel much faster than the speed of sound, often exceeding speeds of 1,800 miles per hour. Let’s delve into the fascinating physics of ballistics and how it relates to your adventures in Vietnam, exploring sound barriers, high-speed projectiles, and the science of velocity.

1. What Determines the Speed of a Bullet?

The speed of a bullet, often referred to as its muzzle velocity, is determined by several factors, all crucial for understanding ballistics.

• Propellant Type: The type of gunpowder or propellant used significantly impacts the bullet’s speed.
• Bullet Weight: Lighter bullets tend to travel faster than heavier ones, given the same amount of propellant.
• Barrel Length: Longer barrels allow for more complete combustion of the propellant, leading to higher velocities.
• Bullet Design: The shape and design of the bullet itself affect its aerodynamic properties and, consequently, its speed.

Understanding these elements can enhance your appreciation for the science behind firearms and projectiles, just as understanding the nuances of Vietnamese culture enriches your travel experience.

2. How Fast Is the Speed of Sound?

The speed of sound is the distance sound travels through a medium in a given unit of time.

• Standard Measurement: At sea level and 20°C (68°F), the speed of sound is approximately 343 meters per second (1,125 feet per second), or about 768 miles per hour.
• Factors Affecting Speed: Temperature, humidity, and altitude can affect the speed of sound. Sound travels faster in warmer air and slower in colder air.
• Mach Number: The ratio of an object’s speed to the speed of sound is known as the Mach number. Mach 1 is equal to the speed of sound.

3. Do Bullets Really Break the Sound Barrier?

Yes, many bullets break the sound barrier, reaching supersonic speeds.

• Supersonic Speed: When a bullet travels faster than the speed of sound, it creates a sonic boom—a sharp cracking sound—as it passes.
• Muzzle Velocity: Many rifle bullets have muzzle velocities exceeding 2,500 feet per second (approximately 1,700 miles per hour), well above the speed of sound.
• Impact on Accuracy: Supersonic speeds can affect a bullet’s trajectory and stability, which is why precision ammunition is designed to maintain consistent performance.

Imagine the precision needed to engineer such projectiles, just as Vietnam has perfected its hospitality to welcome visitors like you.

4. What Is the Muzzle Velocity of Common Firearms?

The muzzle velocity varies depending on the type of firearm and ammunition used.

This table illustrates how different firearms and ammunition types can achieve varying speeds. Just as these velocities differ, SIXT.VN offers a variety of services tailored to your specific travel needs in Vietnam.

5. How Does Bullet Speed Affect Its Trajectory?

A bullet’s speed significantly affects its trajectory due to several factors.

• Gravity: Gravity continuously pulls the bullet downward, causing it to drop over distance.
• Air Resistance: Air resistance, or drag, slows the bullet down, affecting its range and trajectory.
• Spin: Rifling inside the gun barrel imparts a spin on the bullet, stabilizing it in flight and improving accuracy.
• Ballistic Coefficient: This measures a bullet’s ability to overcome air resistance; higher coefficients mean flatter trajectories and less wind drift.

6. What Role Does Air Resistance Play?

Air resistance is a crucial factor in bullet ballistics.

• Drag: As a bullet flies through the air, it experiences drag, which slows it down. This drag is influenced by the bullet’s shape, speed, and the density of the air.
• Shape Matters: Aerodynamic bullets with pointed tips experience less drag than blunt or flat-nosed bullets.
• Velocity Dependence: Air resistance increases exponentially with speed. At supersonic speeds, the effects of drag become even more pronounced due to the formation of shockwaves.

7. What Is a Sonic Boom, and How Is It Created?

A sonic boom is a loud, thunder-like noise produced when an object travels through the air faster than the speed of sound.

• Compression Waves: As an object approaches the speed of sound, the air in front of it is compressed. When the object exceeds the speed of sound, these compression waves merge to form a shockwave.
• Energy Release: The sonic boom is the result of the sudden release of energy as the shockwave passes, creating a sharp, intense sound.
• Audible Impact: The intensity of the sonic boom depends on the size, speed, and altitude of the object.

Understanding these phenomena adds a layer of appreciation to the physics involved, much like understanding Vietnamese history enriches your travel experience.

8. Are There Bullets That Don’t Break the Sound Barrier?

Yes, some bullets are designed to travel at subsonic speeds.

• Subsonic Rounds: These bullets are specifically designed to travel slower than the speed of sound (below approximately 1,125 feet per second).
• Noise Reduction: Subsonic rounds are often used with suppressors (silencers) to reduce the noise of firearms, making them quieter.
• Specialized Applications: They are commonly used in tactical applications where minimizing noise is critical.

9. What Is the Difference Between Subsonic and Supersonic Ammunition?

The main difference lies in the speed of the bullet relative to the speed of sound.

10. How Does Temperature Affect Bullet Speed?

Temperature can influence bullet speed in several ways.

• Propellant Performance: Warmer temperatures can increase the burning rate of the propellant, leading to higher bullet velocities. Conversely, colder temperatures can reduce the burning rate and decrease velocity.
• Air Density: Temperature affects air density, which in turn affects air resistance. Colder air is denser, resulting in greater air resistance and potentially lower bullet speeds.
• Gun Components: Extreme temperatures can also affect the properties of gun components, potentially influencing performance.

11. What Is the Impact of Altitude on Bullet Velocity?

Altitude affects bullet velocity primarily through changes in air density.

• Thinner Air: At higher altitudes, the air is less dense, which reduces air resistance. This can result in higher bullet velocities and flatter trajectories.
• External Ballistics: The decreased air resistance at higher altitudes can extend the effective range of a bullet and reduce the amount of drop over a given distance.
• Environmental Factors: Factors such as temperature and wind can also vary with altitude, further influencing bullet performance.

12. How Is Bullet Speed Measured?

Bullet speed is typically measured using a chronograph.

• Chronograph: A chronograph is a device that measures the time it takes for a bullet to travel between two sensors. By knowing the distance between the sensors, the chronograph can calculate the bullet’s velocity.
• Doppler Radar: More advanced systems use Doppler radar to measure bullet speed. These systems can provide highly accurate measurements over a longer distance.
• High-Speed Photography: High-speed cameras can also be used to capture the bullet’s movement and calculate its speed.

13. Why Is Understanding Bullet Speed Important in Ballistics?

Understanding bullet speed is essential for several reasons.

• Predicting Trajectory: Velocity is a key factor in calculating a bullet’s trajectory, allowing shooters to adjust their aim for different distances.
• Calculating Energy: The kinetic energy of a bullet (energy = 0.5 mass velocity^2) is directly related to its speed. This energy determines the bullet’s impact force and potential damage.
• Ensuring Safety: Understanding bullet speed is critical for ensuring firearm safety, as it affects range and potential ricochet.

14. What Are Some Common Misconceptions About Bullet Speed?

Several misconceptions exist regarding bullet speed.

• Myth: All bullets travel at the same speed. Reality: Bullet speed varies widely depending on the firearm, ammunition, and environmental conditions.
• Myth: A faster bullet is always more accurate. Reality: While speed is important, accuracy also depends on bullet design, stability, and the shooter’s skill.
• Myth: Silencers make bullets subsonic. Reality: Silencers reduce noise but do not change a bullet’s speed. Subsonic ammunition is required for truly quiet shooting.

15. How Does Bullet Design Impact Speed and Performance?

The design of a bullet significantly impacts its speed and overall performance.

• Aerodynamics: Streamlined, pointed bullets experience less air resistance and maintain higher speeds over longer distances.
• Weight Distribution: The distribution of weight within a bullet affects its stability in flight. Bullets with more weight towards the front tend to be more stable.
• Material Composition: The materials used to construct a bullet, such as lead, copper, or alloys, affect its weight, hardness, and how it interacts with the gun barrel.

16. What Is the Ballistic Coefficient, and Why Does It Matter?

The ballistic coefficient (BC) is a measure of a bullet’s ability to overcome air resistance.

• Definition: It quantifies how well a bullet retains its velocity as it travels through the air. A higher BC indicates better performance in resisting air drag.
• Importance: Shooters use BC to predict bullet trajectory and make accurate adjustments for long-range shots. Bullets with high BCs are less affected by wind and maintain flatter trajectories.
• Calculation: BC is calculated based on a bullet’s weight, diameter, and shape.

17. How Do Weather Conditions Affect Bullet Speed and Trajectory?

Weather conditions play a significant role in bullet ballistics.

• Wind: Wind can cause bullets to drift horizontally, affecting accuracy. Shooters must account for wind speed and direction when aiming.
• Temperature: As mentioned earlier, temperature affects both the propellant’s performance and air density, influencing bullet speed.
• Humidity: High humidity can slightly increase air density, leading to increased air resistance and reduced bullet speed.
• Atmospheric Pressure: Changes in atmospheric pressure can also affect air density and bullet performance.

18. What Are the Safety Considerations When Discussing Bullet Speed?

Safety is paramount when discussing bullet speed and firearms.

• Proper Handling: Always handle firearms responsibly and follow all safety rules.
• Safe Distances: Be aware of the effective range of firearms and ensure that there are safe backstops.
• Education: Educate yourself and others about firearm safety and the potential dangers of mishandling.

19. Can You Hear a Bullet Coming Towards You?

Whether you can hear a bullet coming depends on its speed and distance.

• Supersonic Bullets: If a bullet is traveling faster than the speed of sound, you will hear the sonic boom after the bullet has already passed. This means you won’t hear it coming in time to react.
• Subsonic Bullets: If a bullet is traveling slower than the speed of sound, you might hear a faint “whizzing” sound as it approaches. However, it can be difficult to distinguish from other noises, and reaction time would still be minimal.
• Distance: The farther away the bullet is, the less likely you are to hear it.

20. What Are Some Advanced Technologies Used in Ballistics Today?

Advanced technologies are revolutionizing ballistics.

• Smart Bullets: These bullets can adjust their trajectory in flight to hit moving targets.
• Advanced Propellants: New propellants are being developed to provide higher velocities and more consistent performance.
• Laser Rangefinders: These devices measure the distance to a target with high accuracy, allowing shooters to make precise adjustments.
• Ballistic Software: Sophisticated software programs can model bullet trajectories, taking into account various environmental factors.

21. How Does Bullet Speed Affect Its Penetration Power?

Bullet speed is directly related to its penetration power.

• Kinetic Energy: The higher the speed of a bullet, the greater its kinetic energy. This energy is what allows the bullet to penetrate materials.
• Material Resistance: The type of material a bullet is penetrating also plays a role. Harder materials require more energy to penetrate.
• Bullet Design: The shape and composition of a bullet affect how it transfers energy upon impact.

22. What Is the Difference Between Internal, External, and Terminal Ballistics?

Ballistics is divided into three main categories:

• Internal Ballistics: This deals with what happens inside the firearm, including the ignition of the propellant, the pressure generated, and the bullet’s movement down the barrel.
• External Ballistics: This covers the bullet’s flight path from the moment it leaves the barrel until it reaches the target, including the effects of gravity, air resistance, and wind.
• Terminal Ballistics: This focuses on what happens when the bullet strikes the target, including penetration, energy transfer, and the effects on the target.

Understanding these categories provides a comprehensive view of the science of ballistics.

23. How Is Bullet Speed Used in Forensic Science?

Bullet speed is crucial in forensic investigations.

• Trajectory Analysis: By calculating a bullet’s trajectory, investigators can determine the shooter’s location and the circumstances of a shooting.
• Weapon Identification: The speed and characteristics of a bullet can help identify the type of firearm used.
• Reconstruction: Bullet speed is used to reconstruct crime scenes and determine the sequence of events.

24. What Are Some Famous Experiments or Studies Related to Bullet Speed?

Several notable experiments and studies have advanced our understanding of bullet speed.

• Commission on Ballistics Research: This group studied ballistic phenomena during World War II, leading to significant advancements in ammunition and firearm technology.
• Studies on Supersonic Flight: Research into supersonic flight has contributed to our understanding of air resistance and shockwaves, which also apply to bullet ballistics.
• Forensic Ballistics Research: Ongoing research in forensic ballistics continues to refine techniques for analyzing bullet trajectories and identifying firearms.

25. How Can You Learn More About Ballistics and Bullet Speed?

There are many resources available for those interested in learning more.

• Educational Institutions: Universities and technical schools offer courses in ballistics and forensic science.
• Online Resources: Websites, forums, and online courses provide information on various aspects of ballistics.
• Books and Publications: Numerous books and journals cover the science of ballistics in detail.
• Museums and Exhibits: Some museums feature exhibits on firearms and ballistics, providing a hands-on learning experience.

26. How Does Bullet Speed Relate to the Design of Body Armor?

The design of body armor is directly influenced by bullet speed.

• Energy Absorption: Body armor is designed to absorb and dissipate the kinetic energy of a bullet, preventing it from penetrating the wearer.
• Material Science: Advanced materials such as Kevlar, ceramic plates, and composite materials are used to construct body armor capable of withstanding high-speed impacts.
• Testing Standards: Body armor is tested against various types of ammunition and bullet speeds to ensure its effectiveness.

27. What Are the Ethical Considerations Regarding High-Speed Ammunition?

Ethical considerations are important when discussing high-speed ammunition.

• Humanitarian Concerns: The use of high-speed ammunition in warfare and law enforcement raises concerns about the potential for increased injury and suffering.
• Legal Regulations: Many countries have regulations regarding the types of ammunition that can be used, particularly in civilian contexts.
• Responsible Use: It is important to use firearms and ammunition responsibly and ethically, considering the potential consequences of their use.

28. How Has the Understanding of Bullet Speed Evolved Over Time?

Our understanding of bullet speed has evolved significantly over time.

• Early Ballistics: Early understanding was based on empirical observations and trial and error.
• Scientific Advancements: The development of physics and mathematics allowed for more precise calculations and modeling of bullet trajectories.
• Technological Innovations: Advances in technology, such as chronographs and high-speed photography, have provided more accurate measurements and insights.
• Modern Research: Ongoing research continues to refine our understanding of ballistics and improve the performance of firearms and ammunition.

29. What Are Some Key Terms Related to Bullet Speed?

Key terms to understand include:

30. How Does Bullet Speed Influence Hunting Practices?

Bullet speed is a critical factor in hunting.

• Effective Range: Hunters need to know the effective range of their ammunition, which is influenced by bullet speed.
• Energy Transfer: Sufficient bullet speed is necessary to ensure adequate energy transfer to the target, resulting in a humane kill.
• Trajectory Compensation: Hunters must compensate for bullet drop, which is affected by speed and distance.

31. What Role Does Bullet Speed Play in Target Shooting Competitions?

Bullet speed is a key consideration in target shooting competitions.

• Accuracy: Consistent bullet speed is essential for achieving accuracy, especially at long distances.
• Wind Drift: Shooters must account for wind drift, which is affected by bullet speed and ballistic coefficient.
• Ammunition Selection: Competitors carefully select ammunition with consistent velocities to minimize variations in performance.

32. How Does Bullet Speed Impact Military and Law Enforcement Operations?

Bullet speed is critical in military and law enforcement operations.

• Stopping Power: High-speed ammunition can deliver significant stopping power, which is important for neutralizing threats.
• Range and Accuracy: Military and law enforcement personnel need to engage targets at various distances with accuracy, which requires understanding bullet speed and trajectory.
• Tactical Considerations: The choice of ammunition depends on the specific tactical situation and the desired outcome.

33. How Does the Study of Bullet Speed Contribute to Other Scientific Fields?

The study of bullet speed has broader scientific applications.

• Aerodynamics: Research into bullet ballistics contributes to our understanding of aerodynamics and fluid dynamics.
• Material Science: The development of advanced materials for firearms and ammunition has applications in other fields, such as aerospace and automotive engineering.
• Forensic Science: Forensic ballistics techniques are used in criminal investigations and have helped advance the field of forensic science.

34. What Are Some Common Myths About the Speed of Sound and Bullets?

Let’s debunk some common myths.

• Myth: You can outrun a bullet. Reality: Most bullets travel much faster than any human can run.
• Myth: Silencers make guns completely silent. Reality: Silencers reduce the noise of a firearm but do not eliminate it entirely.
• Myth: All bullets travel in a straight line. Reality: Bullets follow a curved trajectory due to gravity and air resistance.

35. How Does Understanding Bullet Speed Improve Firearm Safety?

Understanding bullet speed enhances firearm safety in several ways.

• Range Awareness: Knowing the effective range of a firearm helps prevent accidental injuries and property damage.
• Ricochet Prevention: Understanding how bullets behave when they strike different materials can reduce the risk of ricochets.
• Safe Handling: Proper training and education about firearm safety, including bullet speed, promote responsible gun ownership.

36. What Are Some Interesting Facts About the History of Bullet Speed Measurement?

The history of bullet speed measurement is filled with fascinating facts.

• Early Methods: Early measurements relied on simple timing devices and calculations.
• Development of the Chronograph: The invention of the chronograph in the 19th century revolutionized bullet speed measurement.
• Wartime Innovations: Wartime research led to significant advancements in ballistic measurement techniques.
• Modern Technology: Today, advanced technologies such as Doppler radar provide highly accurate measurements.

37. How Can Bullet Speed Be Used in Recreational Shooting?

Understanding bullet speed can enhance recreational shooting experiences.

• Long-Range Shooting: Knowledge of bullet speed and trajectory is essential for long-range accuracy.
• Competition Shooting: Competitors use ballistic data to optimize their performance.
• Personal Satisfaction: Understanding the science behind shooting can add to the enjoyment of the sport.

38. What Are the Future Trends in Bullet Speed Technology?

The future holds exciting possibilities for bullet speed technology.

• Smart Ammunition: Self-guided bullets could revolutionize military and law enforcement operations.
• Advanced Materials: New materials could lead to lighter, faster, and more accurate bullets.
• Improved Ballistic Modeling: More sophisticated computer models could provide even more precise predictions of bullet trajectories.
• Non-Lethal Ammunition: Research into non-lethal ammunition could lead to safer and more effective alternatives in certain situations.

39. Why Does a Bullet Spin When It Leaves the Gun Barrel?

A bullet spins because of rifling inside the gun barrel.

• Rifling: These spiral grooves impart a spin on the bullet as it travels down the barrel.
• Stabilization: The spin stabilizes the bullet in flight, preventing it from tumbling and improving accuracy.
• Gyroscopic Effect: The spinning motion creates a gyroscopic effect, which helps the bullet maintain its orientation.

40. What Are Some of the Most Common Types of Bullets and Their Speeds?

Common types of bullets and their approximate speeds include:

Understanding these speeds helps in selecting the right ammunition for various purposes.

41. How Does Bullet Speed Affect the Amount of Recoil Felt?

Bullet speed is directly related to the amount of recoil felt when firing a gun.

• Newton’s Third Law: For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. As the bullet is propelled forward, the gun recoils backward.
• Momentum: Recoil is influenced by the bullet’s momentum (mass * velocity). Higher speeds result in greater recoil.
• Gun Weight: The weight of the gun also affects recoil. Heavier guns tend to have less felt recoil than lighter guns.

42. What Is the Relationship Between Bullet Speed and Bullet Weight?

There is an inverse relationship between bullet speed and bullet weight, assuming the same amount of propellant is used.

• Energy Distribution: The energy produced by the propellant is distributed between the bullet and the gun. Lighter bullets receive a greater share of the energy, resulting in higher speeds.
• Momentum Conservation: The total momentum of the bullet and the gun must remain constant. A lighter bullet will have a higher velocity to balance the momentum of the gun.
• Practical Implications: Shooters can choose between lighter, faster bullets for flatter trajectories or heavier, slower bullets for greater energy transfer.

43. How Does the Shape of a Bullet Affect Its Speed?

The shape of a bullet significantly impacts its speed by affecting air resistance.

• Aerodynamics: Streamlined, pointed bullets experience less air resistance and maintain higher speeds over longer distances.
• Drag Coefficient: The drag coefficient measures how well a bullet moves through the air. Lower drag coefficients result in higher speeds.
• Base Shape: The shape of the bullet’s base also affects air resistance. Boat-tail bullets, which taper towards the base, tend to have lower drag coefficients.

44. How Does Humidity Affect Bullet Speed?

Humidity can slightly affect bullet speed due to changes in air density.

• Air Density: High humidity can increase air density, leading to increased air resistance and slightly reduced bullet speed.
• Water Vapor: Water vapor is less dense than dry air, but it displaces the nitrogen and oxygen molecules that make up most of the air, resulting in a slight increase in overall density.
• Practical Impact: The effect of humidity on bullet speed is generally small and may not be noticeable in most shooting situations.

45. What Are the Most Common Types of Firearms Used Today and Their Average Bullet Speeds?

Here are some common firearms and their average bullet speeds:

These speeds vary based on specific ammunition and barrel length.

46. How Do You Calculate Bullet Kinetic Energy?

Calculating bullet kinetic energy involves using the formula:

• Formula: Kinetic Energy (KE) = 0.5 mass velocity^2
• Units: Mass is measured in kilograms (kg), velocity in meters per second (m/s), and kinetic energy in joules (J).
• Example: A bullet with a mass of 0.01 kg traveling at 800 m/s has a kinetic energy of 0.5 0.01 800^2 = 3,200 J.

Understanding kinetic energy helps assess a bullet’s potential impact and damage.

47. How Do Different Types of Gun Powders Affect Bullet Speed?

Different types of gun powders have varying energy densities and burn rates, which affect bullet speed.

• Black Powder: An older type of gunpowder with a slower burn rate, resulting in lower bullet speeds.
• Smokeless Powder: A more modern type of gunpowder with higher energy density and faster burn rates, resulting in higher bullet speeds.
• Double-Base Powder: Contains nitrocellulose and nitroglycerin, offering even higher energy density and potential for increased bullet speeds.
• Burn Rate: Powders with faster burn rates generate higher pressures more quickly, resulting in faster bullet acceleration and higher speeds.

48. What Is the Difference Between a Bullet’s Initial Speed and Its Speed at a Distance?

A bullet’s initial speed (muzzle velocity) decreases over distance due to air resistance and gravity.

• Muzzle Velocity: The speed of the bullet as it leaves the gun barrel.
• Air Resistance: As the bullet travels through the air, it experiences drag, which slows it down.
• Gravity: Gravity continuously pulls the bullet downward, reducing its vertical velocity.
• Ballistic Coefficient: The ballistic coefficient influences how much a bullet slows down over distance. Higher BC bullets retain more of their initial velocity.

49. How Does Barrel Length Influence Bullet Speed?

Barrel length affects bullet speed by providing more time for the propellant to burn and push the bullet forward.

• Combustion Time: Longer barrels allow for more complete combustion of the propellant, resulting in higher pressures and increased bullet acceleration.
• Friction: However, longer barrels also increase friction between the bullet and the barrel, which can slightly reduce speed.
• Optimal Length: There is an optimal barrel length for each type of ammunition, where the benefits of increased combustion outweigh the effects of friction.

50. What Are the Legal Regulations on Bullet Speed and Ammunition?

Legal regulations on bullet speed and ammunition vary by country and jurisdiction.

• Restrictions: Some jurisdictions restrict the use of certain types of ammunition, such as armor-piercing bullets or hollow-point bullets.
• Velocity Limits: Some regulations may impose limits on the muzzle velocity of certain types of firearms.
• Licensing: Owning and using firearms and ammunition often requires licensing and registration.
• International Treaties: International treaties may regulate the use of certain types of ammunition in warfare.

These insights not only deepen your understanding of ballistics but also enrich your perspective as you explore the vibrant landscapes of Vietnam.

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FAQs About Bullet Speed

• Do all bullets travel faster than sound?
  

  No, some bullets are designed to travel at subsonic speeds, while others are supersonic.

• What makes a bullet go faster?
  

  The type of propellant, bullet weight, and barrel length all affect bullet speed.

• Can you hear a bullet coming toward you?
  

  If it’s supersonic, you’ll hear the sonic boom after it passes. Subsonic bullets might produce a faint whizzing sound, but reaction time is minimal.

• How is bullet speed measured?
  

  Bullet speed is measured using a chronograph, Doppler radar, or high-speed photography.

• What is the ballistic coefficient?
  

  It’s a measure of a bullet’s ability to overcome air resistance, influencing its trajectory.

• How does temperature affect bullet speed?
  

  Warmer temperatures can increase the propellant’s burning rate, leading to higher bullet velocities.

• What is internal ballistics?
  

  Internal ballistics involves everything that happens inside the firearm when a shot is fired.

• Why do bullets spin?
  

  Bullets spin to stabilize them in flight, improving accuracy and preventing tumbling.

• What’s the difference between supersonic and subsonic ammunition?
  

  Supersonic ammunition travels faster than sound and creates a sonic boom, while subsonic travels slower, minimizing noise.

• How does bullet speed affect its trajectory?
  

  A bullet’s speed affects its trajectory due to gravity and air resistance, influencing its range and accuracy.