In physics, what is inertia?

Enhance your knowledge for the CAP Mitchell Aerospace Exam with our detailed study guide. Our quiz offers flashcards and multiple-choice questions with explanations. Prepare effectively for success.

Inertia is defined as the tendency of objects to resist changes in their state of motion. This means that an object at rest will remain at rest, and an object in motion will continue to move at a constant velocity unless acted upon by an external force. This concept is fundamental in physics and aligns with Newton's first law of motion, which emphasizes the natural tendency of objects to maintain their current state, whether that be at rest or in uniform motion. Understanding inertia helps explain various phenomena in everyday life, such as why passengers lurch forward in a car when it suddenly stops. The other options do not accurately define inertia: the ability to propel an object pertains to applied forces, the shape of a stationary object does not relate to motion, and the force acting on a moving object is a different concept that addresses the influence on an object rather than its inherent property of motion.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy