which produces more kinetic energy? speed or mass?

Answer 1

Neither one. Both factors, velocity(speed) and mass(bullet weight and volume) are BOTH factors in obtaining the kinetic energy of any particular bullet. A
The same caliber bullets, formed from the same materials(copper jacketed lead, pure copper, etc.) of the same weight, fired at different velocities(speeds) will have different kinetic energy, the higher velocity bullet having more energy.
Different caliber bullets, of different weights, fired at the same velocity, have different kinetic energy, the larger and heavier bullet having more energy.

Answer 2

The equation is 1/2MVsquared=foot pounds so increasing speed makes the kinetic energy go up much faster than increasing the mass M=mass V=velocity

Answer 3

Energy equals mass times the square of velocity. That's why it's a good idea never to look at the energy tables when choosing a rifle for hunting. Too many people who don't know better go hunting with rifles chambered for a too-small caliber at a too-high velocity having been mesmerized by energy tables. John Taylor pointed out long ago that momentum (mass times velocity) correlates more closely with killing power.

Answer 4

What produces the greatest increase in kinetic is an increase in speed AND mass.

Answer 5

Speed, definitely. That equation is true, as a 120-grain bullet traveling at 3,300 feet per second will have more energy than a 180-grain bullet at 2,700 fps.

Kinetic energy isn't everything though. That 120-grain bullet from, say, a .257 Weatherby makes a tremendous long-range setup for animals like deer and antelope. The slower 180, like from a .30-06, is suitable for much larger animals like elk, moose, and bears, despite the lower energy. It also depends on the construction of the bullets.

Answer 6

Mass does the job. A fast .357 Magnum can zip right through a body. A heavy, slow moving .45ACP will stop you in your tracks like being hit with a ball bat.
Our troops are not happy with a .22 (.223) sized bullet. Govt. armorers are refurbishing 7.62 NATO (.308) M-14s. A powerful .30 cal. rd. with proven stopping power.

Answer 7

speed, becuz mass, is just how filled an object is. and speed can create friction- hence it produces more kinetic energy

Answer 8

no, no, mass for sure! If you shoot something with a .45 or a .22 at ten yards, the .22 has a faster muzzel velocity. At ten yards a .22 would make you flinch, a .45 would knock you on your a.s.s! Are you people stupid! Think about it!