What is created by a bullet as it continues its path through a target?

When a bullet penetrates a target, it creates a temporary cavity as it travels through. This temporary cavity is formed by the rapid displacement of tissue due to the bullet's movement. Unlike the primary cavity, which is the permanent wound channel created by the bullet itself, the temporary cavity represents a space that expands and contracts as the bullet passes, caused by the shockwave or kinetic energy transferred to the surrounding tissue.

This phenomenon is particularly important in understanding the effects of ballistic trauma, as the temporary cavity can result in additional tissue damage that extends beyond the immediate path of the bullet. This is why the temporary cavity is crucial in assessing the potential severity of injuries from gunshot wounds, as it can cause significant internal damage even if the actual bullet path appears to be relatively small.