Marshmallows at Supersonic Speed: Could They Kill?

Introduction

Recent discussions on the internet sparked an intriguing question: Could a marshmallow fired at 400 m/s, or about 1400 km/h, actually pose a lethal threat? This article aims to explore the underlying physics, potential injuries, and the context in which such a scenario might occur.

Calculating Kinetic Energy

The kinetic energy (KE) of an object can be calculated using the formula:

KE (1/2) * m * v^2

where:

m is the mass of the object, v is the velocity of the object.

For a standard marshmallow, let's consider a mass of 7 grams (0.007 kg) and a velocity of 1400 km/h (400 m/s), which is equivalent to a supersonic speed.

Calculations

Plugging in the values:

KE (1/2) * 0.007 kg * (400 m/s)^2

KE 0.0035 * 160,000 J

KE 560 J

This amount of energy is significant and comparable to the muzzle energy of a .45 ACP bullet (523 J).

Impact and Potential Injuries

While 560 J of kinetic energy seems substantial, the actual threat posed by a marshmallow is less about its energy and more about its physical properties and where it strikes. A lightweight, soft object can pose particular risks:

Eyes and Throat: A marshmallow could cause severe injury if it strikes these sensitive areas. The impact might not be lethal, but it could lead to permanent damage. Choking: If the victim has their mouth open, the marshmallow could potentially cause choking and asphyxiation. Gas Impact: Even without a projectile, the gases from a powerful marshmallow shot (like a shotgun) could be fatal at short range.

Projectile behavior at high velocity depends critically on the medium through which it travels. The environment and the angle of impact play significant roles in determining the outcome.

Conclusion: The Context Matters

Similar to real estate, where location is everything, the lethality of a supersonic marshmallow depends heavily on the context. In closed environments, such as an enclosed space or at close range, the risks increase dramatically.

While the kinetic energy is significant, the material and the area struck are the primary determinants of the potential harm. Therefore, it is generally advisable to avoid firing any projectiles at such high velocities.