The ballistics is a branch of mechanics which deals with the motion behaviour and characteristics of projectiles, such as bullets, bombs, rockets and guided missiles. There are three main branches of ballistics, namely; interior ballistics, exterior ballistics and terminal ballistics. The ballistic missile is a ground to ground missile with a parabolic flight path which is propelled and guided only during the initial phase.
The interior ballistics deal with the motion of a projectile as it travels down the barrel of a weapon, such as a rifle or pistol. The weight of the bullet, the pressure placed on the bullet, the speed at which the bullet moves through the barrel, the barrel’s length and diameter, and the speed at which the bullet leaves the barrel-all affect the flight of the bullet. The interior ballistics of missiles is concerned with the design of rocket engines and the choice of propellants.
The exterior ballistics is concerned with the flight path or trajectory of a projectile from the time it leaves the rifle or gun until its landing. The bullet travels in an arc after leaving the rifle and finally falls on the ground due to gravity.
The amount of air resistance to a projectile depends on the size, shape and velocity of the projectile and on the density of all. The air resistance slows down the speed of the projectile and thus reduces its range or distance of travel. The wind and crosswind can affect the range and direction of a projectile. If a projectile is fired from a moving weapon or if the target is moving, the range can be affected. The electronic computers are used to measure the effects of all these factors and the required precautions are taken.
The terminal ballistics is concerned with the effect of the projectile when it reaches its target. The bullets cause damage by penetration. Shell or bomb cause damage by their explosion. Nuclear missiles produce blast, heat and radiation.
The forensic ballistics is a separate field that helps police to identify bullets. Every gun or rifle makes marks on the bullets it fires. By examining, the bullet experts can find out about the particular gun from which it was fired which helps in identifying the criminals involved and the consequent arrest.