All Flashcards
What is the effect of zero net force on an object?
The object maintains a constant velocity (either at rest or moving at a constant speed in a straight line).
What is the effect of unbalanced forces on an object?
The object accelerates (changes its velocity).
What happens when an object's mass increases?
Its inertia increases, making it harder to change its state of motion.
What happens if the reference frame is accelerating?
Newton's First Law does not directly apply; fictitious forces may be needed to explain motion.
Differentiate between balanced and unbalanced forces.
Balanced forces: Net force is zero, no change in velocity. Unbalanced forces: Non-zero net force, causes acceleration.
What is the difference between inertial and non-inertial reference frames?
Inertial frames: Newton's First Law holds. Non-inertial frames: Accelerating or rotating, require fictitious forces.
Compare equilibrium and 'no motion'.
Equilibrium: Constant velocity (can be zero). 'No motion': Object is at rest (zero velocity).
Define Newton's First Law.
An object maintains its state of motion unless acted upon by a net external force.
What is inertia?
The tendency of an object to resist changes in its state of motion.
Define translational equilibrium.
A state where the net force on an object is zero, resulting in constant velocity.
What is an inertial reference frame?
A reference frame in which Newton's First Law holds true; an object with no net force maintains constant velocity.
What is net force?
The vector sum of all forces acting on an object.