The behavior of projectiles upon impact with human tissue is a complex phenomenon influenced by numerous factors, including projectile velocity, angle of incidence, and the type of tissue encountered. A .22 caliber bullet, while generally considered low-powered compared to other calibers, can still cause significant damage depending on these factors. The possibility of a projectile changing trajectory within the body is a real concern, potentially leading to unpredictable injuries.
Understanding the potential for deviation from the initial trajectory is crucial in fields such as forensic science, medicine, and ballistics research. Accurate analysis of wound patterns assists medical professionals in providing appropriate treatment and can be critical in legal investigations for reconstructing events. Historical data from autopsies and ballistic tests has provided valuable insights into this complex interplay of physics and biology.