A bullet shot underwater given a velocity function

In summary, when solving for the maximum position of a bullet shot underwater, you can use the velocity equation vx(t)=voxe-bt and integrate it to get x(t)=x0+[(-vox/b)e-bt]. Using the initial condition x(0)=x0, you can solve for C and determine the maximum position of the bullet. Solving for C in an indefinite integral may not always give the maximum or minimum of the function, it depends on the specific problem.
  • #1
getty102
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0

Homework Statement



A bullet shot underwater will experience "viscous drag" and follow this velocity equation.
vx(t)=voxe-bt

What is the maximum position of the bullet (if you were to wait a long time, what will its position be)?

Given: vox=247m/s
b=0.53 s-1
x0=47.9m

Homework Equations



x(t)=d(vx)/dt, vx=d(ax)/dt

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm not sure where to start. The only thing I came up with is that when the v=0, that would be the max position although that isn't giving me the correct answer.
 
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  • #2
Do you know how to go from a velocity equation to a position equation?
That is: [tex] v \rightarrow x [/tex] ?
Hint: Use the fact that: [tex] v = \frac{dx}{dt} [/tex]
How do you get x?
 
  • #3
In order to go from v→x, you need to integrate

x=∫vxdt

integrating voxe-bt gave me x(t)= x0+[(-vox/b)e-bt]
 
  • #4
Right idea, let's step through it.
[tex] x(t) = \int v_o e^{-bt} dt = C - \frac{v_o}{b} e^{-bt} [/tex]
Got that right?
Now you need to use your initial conditions to solve for C right?
Use
[tex] x(0) = x_o [/tex]
What is C? Now what is [tex] x(t) [/tex]?
 
  • #5
Thank you, that helped alot!

I have another question relating to these types of problems

When you solve for C in an indefinite integral, will that always give you a max or min of the function?
 

FAQ: A bullet shot underwater given a velocity function

1. What is the velocity of a bullet when shot underwater?

The velocity of a bullet when shot underwater depends on several factors, such as the type of bullet, the depth of the water, and the initial velocity of the bullet. However, in general, the velocity of a bullet decreases significantly when shot underwater due to the resistance and drag of the water.

2. Can a bullet maintain its shape and trajectory underwater?

No, a bullet cannot maintain its shape and trajectory when shot underwater. The resistance and drag of the water cause the bullet to lose its velocity and spin, resulting in a significant change in its trajectory. In some cases, the bullet may even break apart due to the force of the water.

3. How does the density of the water affect the velocity of a bullet?

The density of the water has a significant impact on the velocity of a bullet when shot underwater. As the density of the water increases, the resistance and drag on the bullet also increase, causing it to lose its velocity at a faster rate. Therefore, the deeper the water, the slower the bullet will travel.

4. Is it possible for a bullet to travel faster underwater than in air?

No, it is not possible for a bullet to travel faster underwater than in air. The resistance and drag of the water greatly reduce the velocity of the bullet, making it impossible for it to travel faster than its initial velocity when shot in air.

5. Can a bullet be lethal when shot underwater?

Yes, a bullet can still be lethal when shot underwater, although its effectiveness may vary depending on the depth and distance of the shot. The bullet may lose some of its penetrating power due to the resistance of the water, but it can still cause damage to living organisms in its path.

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