What does the term "trajectory" refer to in the context of firearms?

In the context of firearms, "trajectory" specifically refers to the path that a projectile takes as it travels through space after being discharged from the firearm. This encompasses the initial velocity, the effects of gravity, air resistance, and other factors that influence how the bullet moves once it leaves the barrel. Understanding trajectory is crucial for crime scene analysts as it helps in determining where a bullet came from and identifying its impact point.

While other options explore aspects related to the firing of a bullet, they do not capture the comprehensive definition of trajectory. For example, the speed of the bullet after leaving the muzzle relates to its initial kinetic energy, the angle at which the gun is fired pertains to the direction of the shot, and the distance the bullet travels focuses on how far it goes, but all these elements are components of the broader concept of trajectory itself.