What goes up.....

There is no easy way to defy Newtonian mechanics and gravity, even in North Africa. Whilst not wishing to dampen any freedom related joy of the Libyan people, they might want to note that celebratory firing of guns into the air is not without risk. One study found that 118 people were treated for random "falling-bullet injuries" at one Los Angeles medical centre between 1985 and 1992, resulting in 38 deaths. Apparently 0.30 calibre rounds can reach terminal velocities of 300 feet (91m) per second as they fall and that 200 feet (61m) per second is enough to penetrate the skull.