Answer to Question #21528 in Mechanics | Relativity for MrT

Question

I want to explore what kinetic energy means. In this case, let's take two objects with about the same kinetic energy. A 94 lb (42.6 kg) cheetah running at 14 m/s (well within it's capability) and a rather powerful 23 gram bullet going at 602 m/s. What would happen if the cheetah runs straight into a 180 lb man? What would happen if the bullet hits a 180 lb man wearing a bullet proof vest? Let's assume the bullet doesn't exit, so all energy is transferred into the armor. What happens to the energy of the objects as they strike their targets? Use the physics knowledge you've gained so far in these three chapters to answer these questions.