No, a loaded bullet typically does not fire when it hits the ground solely due to inertia. Inertia refers to the tendency of an object to resist changes in its state of motion. While inertia plays a role in the behavior of a bullet, other factors are more significant in determining whether it will fire upon impact.
When a bullet strikes a hard surface like the ground, several conditions need to be met for it to discharge. These conditions typically involve mechanical forces acting on the bullet and its firing mechanism. Some factors that come into play include:
Impact force: The bullet must experience a significant impact force upon striking the ground. The inertia of the bullet contributes to this force, but it is not the sole factor.
Firing pin safety mechanisms: Modern firearms are designed with safety features that prevent accidental discharges upon impact. These mechanisms usually involve the need for a controlled and intentional action, such as the trigger being pulled, to release the firing pin and initiate the firing process.
Structural integrity: The bullet and its casing need to maintain their structural integrity during impact. If the bullet or casing is damaged or deformed upon hitting the ground, it may not align properly with the firing pin or have the necessary conditions for ignition.
It's important to note that firearms and their ammunition are engineered with safety considerations to prevent unintended discharges. While it's theoretically possible for a bullet to discharge upon impact under certain extreme and rare circumstances, it is highly unlikely to occur in typical scenarios when a loaded bullet hits the ground due solely to inertia.