The role that pulverization of the target material may play in absorbing the energy of an impacting missile is discussed. The energy that can be absorbed in this way will, in general, depend on the area of new surface that is created. Approximate calculations suggest that, for impacts against rock-like materials and glass, very considerable amounts of energy could be absorbed. The production of rock flour at the Barringer Meteorite Crater in Arizona is cited as an example.
This content is only available via PDF.
© 1953 American Association of Physics Teachers.
1953
American Association of Physics Teachers
AAPT members receive access to the American Journal of Physics and The Physics Teacher as a member benefit. To learn more about this member benefit and becoming an AAPT member, visit the Joining AAPT page.