Q22CQ - College Physics (Urone)

Question

In terms of angular momentum, what is the advantage of giving a football or a rifle bullet a spin when throwing or releasing it?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

By providing spin to bullet or football, it overcomes ai resistance and travels large distances.

Step 1: Concept of law of conservation of angular momentum.

The law of conservation of angular momentum states that there will be no change in the angular momentum unless an external torque acts on the object. Angular momentum of a system is conserved as long as there is no external torque acting on the system.

Step 2: Reason for spin provided to bullet or football.

Spin is given to the bullet or football, so that it can attain angular momentum in the direction of motion. Now, to change the direction of the bullet or football extra torque is needed as not only direction of velocity has to be changed but angular momentum also needs to be changed. This effect is known as gyroscopic effect and it provides a more stable trajectory by reducing the air resistance.

 

Because of the spin, air resistance has a harder time making the bullet or football wobble, so it travels further than it would have travelled without the spin.