Why do we still use gunpowder in ammunition instead of other explosives that have a much greater energy to volume ratio?
No matter what explosive we use in guns, we'll still call it "gunpowder" even if it's not a powder. It's just a name that stuck. But we've actually changed the formula several times.
The Short Answer
No matter what explosive we use in guns, we'll still call it "gunpowder" even if it's not a powder. It's just a name that stuck. But we've actually changed the formula several times. With small arms, you actually want to limit the speed at which the agent explodes, if you can believe it. Too much energy too fast, and you have to compensate with a stronger, heavier barrel. If you can time it just right, then the explosion provides continuous pressure for the duration of the slug's trip down the barrel. Modern 'gunpowder' is designed that way. Rather than just being the simple black powder that Captain Kirk cobbled together to kill an alien lizard-man, it's now little pellets optimized for stability, timing, reduction of smoke, and power.
Analysis
Key Concepts: It's, powder, barrel
This explanation focuses on it's, powder, barrel and spans 128 words across 8 sentences. At 78% above the average Science explanation (72 words), this is one of the more thorough answers in this category, reflecting the complexity of the underlying question.
What This Answer Covers
The explanation opens with: “No matter what explosive we use in guns, we'll still call it "gunpowder" even if it's not a powder.” It then elaborates by presenting a contrasting perspective, ultimately building toward a complete picture across 8 connected points.
How This Compares in Science
Ranked #59 of 500 Science questions by answer depth (top 13%). This places it in the comprehensive tier — the top quarter of most thoroughly answered questions. Questions at this depth typically involve multi-faceted topics requiring nuanced explanation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a simple explanation for why we still use gunpowder in ammunition instead of other explosives that have a much greater energy to volume ratio?
No matter what explosive we use in guns, we'll still call it "gunpowder" even if it's not a powder. It's just a name that stuck. But we've actually changed the formula several times. With small arms, you actually want to limit the speed at which the…
How detailed is this explanation compared to similar Science questions?
This is one of the most thorough answer at 128 words, ranked #59 of 500 Science questions by depth. The key concepts covered are it's, powder, barrel.
What approach does this answer take to explain we still use gunpowder in ammunition instead of other explos?
The explanation uses contrasting perspectives across 128 words. It is categorized under Science and addresses the question through 1 analytical lens.