Exploring Rifled vs. Smooth Bore Barrels

Exploring Rifled vs. Smooth Bore Barrels

Assessment

Interactive Video

Science

12th Grade

Practice Problem

Hard

Created by

Lucas Foster

FREE Resource

The video explains the instability of projectiles in flight due to poor aerodynamics. It contrasts the stability of round cannonballs with elongated projectiles, which require spinning for stability. The solution to this problem is the rifled barrel, which imparts spin to the projectile, enhancing its gyroscopic stability and accuracy.

Read more

5 questions

Show all answers

1.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

Why does a cylindrical projectile lose stability when fired?

Due to its aerodynamic shape

Because it's not round

Lack of spin

Weight distribution

2.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

What characteristic of a round cannonball contributes to its stable flight?

Its weight

The material it's made from

Its round shape

The speed it's fired at

3.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

What is the primary function of rifling inside a barrel?

To increase the speed of the projectile

To make the barrel stronger

To impart spin to the projectile

To reduce the wear on the barrel

4.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

How does spin improve the performance of a projectile?

Makes it heavier

Reduces air resistance

Improves gyroscopic stability

Increases speed

5.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

What is the outcome of firing a projectile through a rifled barrel?

Decreased accuracy

Shorter range

Increased weight

Massive improvement in accuracy