Question:

If n bullets each of mass \(m\) are fired with a velocity \(v\) per second from a machine gun, the force required to hold the gun in position is

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In continuous mass flow problems, force equals rate of change of momentum: \(F = \dot{m}v\).
Updated On: May 8, 2026
  • \((n+1)mv\)
  • \(\frac{mv}{n^2}\)
  • \(\frac{mv}{n}\)
  • \(n^2 mv\)
  • \(nmv\)
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The Correct Option is

Solution and Explanation

Concept: Force is defined as the rate of change of momentum: \[ F = \frac{dp}{dt} \] When bullets are fired continuously, the force on the gun is equal to the rate at which momentum is carried away by the bullets.

Step 1:
Understand the situation.
Each bullet has mass \(m\) and velocity \(v\). Number of bullets fired per second = \(n\).

Step 2:
Momentum of one bullet. \[ p = mv \]

Step 3:
Total momentum per second. Since \(n\) bullets are fired per second: \[ \frac{dp}{dt} = n \times mv \]

Step 4:
Force on the gun. \[ F = nmv \]

Step 5:
Conclusion. \[ \boxed{nmv} \]
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