Ballistic gelatin is a synthetic material designed to simulate human tissue for testing the performance of bullets and other projectiles. It is made from a mixture of gelatin and water, which creates a medium that can absorb the energy of a projectile, allowing researchers to study its penetration and expansion characteristics. This material is commonly used in forensic science, law enforcement, and ammunition testing. By shooting projectiles into ballistic gelatin, experts can analyze how different types of ammunition behave upon impact, helping to improve safety and effectiveness in various applications, including hunting and self-defense.