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Why does an ordinary rifle recoil (kick backward) when
Chapter 4, Problem 18(choose chapter or problem)
Problem 18CQ
Why does an ordinary rifle recoil (kick backward) when fired? The barrel of a recoilless rifle is open at both ends. Describe how Newton’s third law applies when one is fired. Can you safely stand close behind one when it is fired?
Questions & Answers
QUESTION:
Problem 18CQ
Why does an ordinary rifle recoil (kick backward) when fired? The barrel of a recoilless rifle is open at both ends. Describe how Newton’s third law applies when one is fired. Can you safely stand close behind one when it is fired?
ANSWER:
Solution 18CQ
This question can be explained on the basis of Newton’s third law of motion.
Step 1 of 3
When a bullet is fired from a rifle, the rifle recoils. The firing of the bullet is an action. According to Newton’s third law of motion, every action is accompanied by an equal and opposite reaction. The bullet is much lighter than the gun. So, its acceleration is much larger than the latter. The latter being much heavier, experiences a smaller acceleration. So, there is a slight displacement of the same backward.