This calculator determines the recoil momentum generated when a projectile is fired, based on its mass and velocity.
Learn how to use the Recoil Momentum Calculator and understand the physics behind recoil momentum.
Recoil momentum is the backward momentum generated when a projectile is fired from a gun. According to Newton's Third Law of Motion, for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.
The formula used is p = m × v, where p is momentum, m is mass, and v is velocity. This means that even if a bullet has a small mass but high velocity, it can still generate significant recoil momentum.
This calculator can help firearm enthusiasts understand the recoil characteristics of different ammunition. Higher momentum generally means more forceful recoil, which can affect shooter comfort and accuracy.
If a 0.22 caliber bullet (mass = 0.003 kg) is fired at 400 m/s, the recoil momentum would be:
p = 0.003 kg × 400 m/s = 1.2 kg·m/s