This may be a silly question, but why do larger diameter projectiles have a longer range than those with a smaller diameter? I note from a chart on the Iowa class that a 16", 640 lb. projectile with a full charge at an angle of 45 degrees reaches 47,000 yards. The 5", 53.3 lb. projectile at the same angle reaches only 18,200 yards. Obviously there must be proportionately less powder behind the 5" projectile. Could'nt you put enough powder behind a 5" shell to send it an equal distance downrange? Is range related to the length of the barrel?
Another question, would'nt it be possible to design a modern, sabot style penetrator shell that would pierce even the armor on a battleship?
Thanks!
Another question, would'nt it be possible to design a modern, sabot style penetrator shell that would pierce even the armor on a battleship?
Thanks!
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