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Is there a formula to calculate both the translational and rotational velocity? Does the bar always bend, and if so is there a formula on how it bends (maybe related to the velocity/force of the bullet)? What if the bar is very long, to the point where if the bar rotate it'd be at relativistic velocity?

What if I shoot at a string of cloth instead? Would the behavior of the bar/string be different if there's air drag?

Sorry for asking too many questions, but if you can answer any of them I'd be grateful.

Qmechanic
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Juan
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1 Answers1

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Imagine a steel bar floating in space.

With you so far.

Assuming the bar wouldn't break or bend, if I shoot a bullet at one end

What do you mean "one end"? Be specific. Precisely describe the bar and where the bullet hits it.

would it rotate, fly away, or both?

That depends entirely on where the bullet hits it. If you hit it in the middle of the end, then it simply moves. If you hit it on the side of the end, it rotates too. Which is trivially calculated using basic trigonometry.

Maury Markowitz
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