What is "ballistics" in the context of firearms?

Ballistics is defined as the study of the behavior of projectiles and firearms. This field encompasses various aspects of the dynamics of how a projectile (such as a bullet) travels when it is fired from a weapon, including factors like velocity, trajectory, and the effects of gravity and air resistance on the projectile's path. Understanding ballistics is essential in forensic science, particularly in crime scene investigations, because it helps forensic experts analyze shooting incidents by providing insights into the weapon used, the distance from which it was fired, and the likely trajectory of the projectile.

The other options focus on different aspects of firearms or forensic analysis. While the study of bullets and their impact on targets is related to ballistics, it is a narrower definition and doesn't fully encompass the broader scope of projectile dynamics that includes all aspects of motion and behavior. Firearm ownership laws, while important for regulation and legal contexts, do not pertain to the physical characteristics or behaviors of projectiles. Lastly, the analysis of gunshot residue is a specific forensic technique used to determine whether someone discharged a firearm but does not cover the overall study of projectile behavior, which is the essence of ballistics.