intermediate ballistics
Quick Summary
Intermediate ballistics is the study of the transition phase between internal and external ballistics. It focuses on the events that occur as a projectile leaves the muzzle of a firearm or weapon. This includes the initial moments of flight, the blast of gases escaping the muzzle, and any forces that might affect the projectile's stability immediately after it exits the barrel.1
Ballistics, in general, is the science concerned with the propulsion, flight, and impact of projectiles. It is divided into several disciplines:
* Internal ballistics: Deals with the propulsion of projectiles within the gun or weapon.123
* External ballistics: Studies the flight of projectiles after they leave the muzzle, considering factors like gravity and atmospheric conditions.14
* Terminal ballistics: Concerns the impact of projectiles on their targets.1
Ask Britannica AI about this topic
Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.
