Inertia
Definition:
Inertia is the property of a body by virtue of which it resists any change in its state of rest or of uniform motion in a straight line.
Formula:
There is no specific formula for inertia, but it is directly related to mass.
Greater mass ⇒ Greater inertia
Types of Inertia
1. Inertia of Rest
Definition:
The tendency of a body to remain at rest unless acted upon by an external force.
Example:
A book lying on a table remains at rest until someone pushes it.
2. Inertia of Motion
Definition:
The tendency of a body to continue in its state of uniform motion unless acted upon by an external force.
Example:
A moving car continues to move even when the engine is switched off, until friction or another force stops it.
3. Inertia of Direction
Definition:
The tendency of a body to resist any change in its direction of motion.
Example:
When a car suddenly turns, passengers tend to move in the original direction due to inertia of direction.
Illustrative Image
Summary Table
| Type of Inertia | Definition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Rest | Tendency to remain at rest | Book on table stays at rest |
| Motion | Tendency to remain in uniform motion | Moving car continues to roll |
| Direction | Tendency to resist change in direction | Passengers lurch sideways in turning car |
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