Would a 10km/s projectile disintegrate at sea level?

In summary, the conversation discusses firing a projectile at a high speed and whether it would disintegrate due to friction at sea level. It is suggested that the polished aluminum projectile would only ablate some of the metal at a rate of less than 1mm per second. The possibility of other forces affecting the projectile is also brought up, and a link is provided for further reading. However, the main question of calculating the friction and its effect is left unanswered.
  • #1
Treva31
48
2
Assuming you could fire a projectile at 10km/s.
Polished aluminum, almost solid, same size and shape as an artillery shell.

Most people say it would disintegrate due to the friction at sea level.
But would it really?
I heard someone say it would just ablate some of the aluminum. And that 1700 kelvin ablates less than 1mm per second. Which if you shot up at that speed it wouldn't take very long to get into much thinner air.
Does anyone really even know? I don't think anything has ever gone that fast within the atmosphere.

How could I calculate the friction produced and its effect?
And are there other forces to worry about?
 
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  • #2
Perhaps have a look at ..
http://www.nytimes.com/1994/03/22/science/fastest-gun-on-earth-goals-go-beyond-planet.htm
 
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  • #3
CWatters said:
Perhaps have a look at ..
http://www.nytimes.com/1994/03/22/science/fastest-gun-on-earth-goals-go-beyond-planet.htm

Thanks, that is interesting but doesn't really answer the main question.
 
Last edited by a moderator:

Related to Would a 10km/s projectile disintegrate at sea level?

1. What is the speed of a 10km/s projectile?

A 10km/s projectile refers to an object moving at a velocity of 10 kilometers per second.

2. What factors determine if a projectile will disintegrate at sea level?

The main factors that determine if a projectile will disintegrate at sea level are its size, shape, and composition. Objects with larger surface areas and less structural integrity are more likely to disintegrate at high speeds.

3. How does air resistance affect a projectile's disintegration at sea level?

Air resistance, also known as drag, is a force that acts in the opposite direction of a projectile's motion. This force can cause a projectile to slow down and potentially disintegrate, especially at high speeds and low altitudes where air density is greater.

4. Can a 10km/s projectile withstand the forces of air resistance at sea level?

It depends on the size and composition of the projectile. Some objects, such as small bullets, are designed to withstand high speeds and air resistance. However, larger and less sturdy objects may not be able to withstand the forces and may disintegrate.

5. Are there any other factors that could cause a 10km/s projectile to disintegrate at sea level?

In addition to air resistance, other factors that could cause a 10km/s projectile to disintegrate at sea level include impact with other objects, extreme temperatures, and structural weaknesses. The specific conditions and characteristics of the projectile will also play a role in its potential for disintegration.

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