Q. Two bullets are fired simultaneously, horizontally and with different speeds from the same place. Which bullet will hit the ground first?

A) The faster bullet
B) The slower bullet
C) Both will hit simultaneously
D) Depends on the masses
Explanation

(c) When two bullets are fired simultaneously, horizontally with different speeds, then they cover different horizontal distance because there is no acceleration in this direction.
$Since,\ horizontal\ distance(R) = velocity\ \times time.$
But there is a vertical acceleration towards the earth (g), so the vertical distance covered by both bullet are
$given\ by$
$\ y = \frac{1}{2}gt^{2},\ $which is independent of initial velocity.
So, both the bullets will hit the ground simultaneously $.$

Dr. Abubacker
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker

Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist

Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.