ClassX Video Lessons Youtube Channel SmarterEveryDay I Struck A Match With a Bullet (380,117 frames per second SlowMo) – Smarter Every Day 294
Welcome to an exciting exploration with Smarter Every Day! Today, we’re diving into a fascinating experiment where we try to light a match using a bullet. Sounds cool, right? Let’s see how it all works.
In a previous attempt, we tried this experiment with red strike-anywhere matches. However, these are hard to find now, so we’re using green tip Diamond brand matches instead. Our goal is to make sure the bullet hits the match just right to ignite it.
To get started, we need to set everything up perfectly. We use a special holder made with a CNC mill to keep things in place. We also try different types of bullets, like subsonic and short rifle bullets, to see which works best.
As we work, we notice some problems with how the matches are lined up. We think the blast from the rifle might be blowing out the flame, so we add a cardboard smoke diverter to change the airflow direction.
After several tries, we finally get the matches to light up. We then focus on fewer matches to get a clearer shot and make sure everything is perfectly aligned using a laser.
We learn that precision is key to making this experiment work. To keep the barrel steady and reduce wobbling, we use a vise, which helps us get more consistent results.
After many adjustments and tests, we capture amazing high-speed footage of the bullet hitting the match. We even try a fun experiment by shooting a match out of the rifle, and guess what? The bullet lights the match!
This experiment shows how important teamwork and friendship are in scientific exploration. By working together and trying different ideas, we achieve something really cool.
Thanks for joining us on this scientific adventure! If you want to see more awesome projects, check out smartereveryday.com.
Use your smartphone or a camera with a slow-motion feature to record a simple action, like dropping a ball or popping a balloon. Analyze the video to observe details that are not visible in real-time. Discuss how slow-motion technology helps scientists understand fast processes, similar to the bullet and match experiment.
Using materials like cardboard, straws, or clay, design and build a holder for a matchstick. Consider how to keep the match stable and aligned, similar to the CNC mill holder used in the experiment. Test your design by gently blowing on the match to see if it stays in place.
Create a simple experiment to observe how airflow affects a flame. Use a candle and a piece of cardboard to redirect air. Blow gently and observe how the flame reacts. Discuss how the cardboard smoke diverter in the experiment helped control airflow to prevent the flame from being blown out.
Practice precision by measuring and marking a straight line on a piece of paper using a ruler. Then, try to cut along the line with scissors. Discuss the importance of precision in experiments and how tools like lasers and vises help achieve accurate results, as seen in the match and bullet experiment.
Work in small groups to build a simple structure using blocks or other materials. Each member should have a specific role, such as builder, planner, or quality checker. Reflect on how teamwork and collaboration contributed to the success of your project, similar to the collaborative efforts in the experiment.
Sure! Here’s a sanitized version of the transcript, removing any informal language, laughter, and personal anecdotes while maintaining the core content:
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Hello, and welcome back to Smarter Every Day. Today, we will explore an interesting scientific experiment involving striking a match with a bullet.
In a previous video, we demonstrated this concept, but we are revisiting it with new tools and techniques. We initially used red strike-anywhere matches, which are now difficult to find. Currently, the only available option is the green tip Diamond brand matches.
To achieve our goal, we need to ensure that the bullet strikes the match correctly. In our earlier attempts, we used subsonic bullets and short rifle bullets. We have a holder made on a CNC mill to assist with our setup.
As we prepare, we notice some issues with our alignment and the positioning of the matches. We hypothesize that the blast from the rifle may be extinguishing the flame, so we implement a cardboard smoke diverter to redirect the airflow.
After several trials, we successfully ignite the matches. We adjust our setup to focus on fewer matches for a tighter shot and ensure precise alignment with the laser.
Through our experimentation, we learn that achieving the desired outcome requires a high level of precision. We address the wobbling of the barrel by stabilizing it with a vise, which improves our consistency.
After multiple adjustments and tests, we capture high-speed footage of the bullet striking the match. We also conduct a unique experiment by attempting to shoot a match out of the rifle.
The results are surprising, as the bullet successfully ignites the match. This experiment highlights the importance of collaboration and friendship in scientific exploration.
Thank you for joining us in this experiment. If you would like to stay updated on future projects, please visit smartereveryday.com.
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This version focuses on the scientific aspects and main points of the discussion while omitting informalities and personal interactions.
Experiment – A scientific procedure undertaken to test a hypothesis or demonstrate a known fact. – In our science class, we conducted an experiment to see how different liquids affect plant growth.
Bullet – A small, metal projectile for firing from a rifle, revolver, or other small firearm. – In physics, we learned how the shape of a bullet affects its speed and trajectory.
Match – A short, thin piece of wood or cardboard tipped with a chemical substance that ignites when scratched against a rough surface. – We used a match to ignite the Bunsen burner during our chemistry experiment.
Ignite – To catch fire or cause to catch fire. – The teacher showed us how to safely ignite a piece of magnesium to observe its bright flame.
Precision – The quality of being exact and accurate. – Precision is crucial when measuring ingredients for a chemical reaction to ensure the experiment’s success.
Teamwork – The combined action of a group, especially when effective and efficient. – Our science project required teamwork to complete all the tasks on time.
Airflow – The movement of air, especially around a moving object or through a space. – We studied how the shape of an airplane wing affects airflow and lift.
Rifle – A gun, especially one fired from shoulder level, having a long spirally grooved barrel intended to make a bullet spin and thereby have greater accuracy over a long distance. – In physics, we discussed how the rifling inside a rifle barrel helps stabilize the bullet’s flight.
Footage – Recorded film or video material. – The teacher showed us footage of a rocket launch to explain the principles of thrust and gravity.
Adjustments – Small changes made to improve or correct something. – We made adjustments to our model bridge to ensure it could hold more weight during the science fair.
