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did you know that there's a type of glass that can withstand a bullet? it's called prince rupert's drop, and it's a fascinating scientific phenomenon that's been captivating minds for centuries. in this article, we'll explore the science behind prince rupert's drops and the bulletproof glass experiment that's been making waves on the internet.
what are prince rupert's drops?
prince rupert's drops are teardrop-shaped glass objects that are incredibly strong at the bulbous end but fragile at the tail. they were named after prince rupert of the rhine, who introduced them to the scientific community in the 17th century. these drops are made by dripping molten glass into cold water, which causes the glass to cool rapidly and form a unique structure.
the bulletproof glass experiment
in a recent video by smarter every day, the channel's host, destin sandlin, teamed up with brady haran of objectivity to conduct an experiment that tested the strength of prince rupert's drops. they used a high-speed camera to capture the moment a bullet hit the bulbous end of the drop at 150,000 frames per second. the results were astonishing: the drop withstood the impact of the bullet, proving its incredible strength.
the science behind the experiment
the reason prince rupert's drops are so strong is due to the unique structure that forms when the molten glass is rapidly cooled. the outer layer of the drop cools faster than the inner layer, creating a compressive stress that makes the bulbous end incredibly strong. however, the tail of the drop is fragile because it cools more slowly, creating a tensile stress that makes it easy to break.
the implications of the experiment
the bulletproof glass experiment has important implications for the field of materials science. by understanding the unique properties of prince rupert's drops, scientists can develop new materials that are stronger and more durable. this could lead to the creation of new bulletproof materials, as well as other applications in industries such as construction and aerospace.
conclusion
prince rupert's drops are a fascinating scientific phenomenon that have captured the imagination of people for centuries. the bulletproof glass experiment conducted by smarter every day and objectivity has shed new light on the unique properties of these drops and their potential applications in the field of materials science. by continuing to study these drops, we can unlock new insights into the world of glass and its potential uses in our everyday lives.
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