Inertia
noun · Physics
Definition
The tendency of an object to resist changes in its motion.
Explanation
Objects with greater mass have more inertia. This is the idea behind Newton's first law.
Example
Passengers lurch forward when a bus brakes.
Common confusion
Inertia is not a force.
Related terms
- ForceA push or pull on an object, measured in newtons.
- MassThe amount of matter in an object, measured in kilograms.
Study guides that use this term
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