How does a helicopter and a gun work?

Question

physics...

Answer 1

Are you curious how both systems work together, or are you more interested in how those individual systems work?

Well, let's start with the helicopter. Helicopters fly by the principal of lift. The contour of the upper spinning rotor forces air downward with sufficient force to allow the body of the helicopter to rise off of the ground. Indeed, the main rotor can be pivoted so as to provide more or less lift, thus allowing the helicopter to lift or descend at different velocities. The tail rotor is used as a stabilizing force to keep the body of the helicopter from spinning in mid air. By adjusting the speed of the tail rotor, the pilot can turn the helicopter in one direction or the other.

The gun, in its simplest form, works on the principal of expansion of a propellant. The force of the expansion is used to hurl a projectile a considerable speed and force. The barrel contains the force of the expansion, indeed a small explosion, directing all of the energy out of the end of the barrel, sending the projectile to its intended target. Guns have seen significant improvements over the years since their humble beginnings, employing sophisticated mechanical systems in some cases, so as to allow for rapid firing of multiple rounds.

During the vietnam war, when helicopters proved themselves as capable military vehicles, the idea of a gunship arose through necessity. By mounting a gun at the doorways of blackhawks, transport helicopters were given the ability to lay down a suppressive fire while dropping off or picking up troops. Further advancements yielded attack helicopters, such as the AH-1 Cobra, where heavy armaments were used to help combat enemy forces.

Helicopter gunships have seen significant advances since this time, the most recent that I'm aware of being the RAH-66 Comanche. This is an extremely lethal assault helicopter, capable of decimating enemy troop and armored columns.

Hopefully, I've given you the answer that you seek.

Answer 2

http://travel.howstuffworks.com/helicopter.htm

http://science.howstuffworks.com/revolver.htm