Terminal ballistics is the study of how a projectile, such as a bullet, behaves upon impact with a target. This field examines factors like penetration, expansion, and energy transfer, which are crucial for understanding the effectiveness of different types of ammunition in various scenarios. The performance of a projectile can vary based on its design, material, and velocity. For example, hollow-point bullets are designed to expand upon impact, creating a larger wound channel, while full metal jacket bullets typically penetrate deeper without expanding. Understanding these dynamics helps in fields like military and law enforcement.