A Description of Newton's First Law of Motion
On the previous page, we discussed the fact that Newton's First Law of Motion is a restatement of inertia; however, it is ALSO a restatement of mechanical equilibrium. Read Newton's First Law of Motion again:
Newton's First Law of Motion states that if zero net (total) outside force acts on an object (or on a system of objects), the object will not accelerate. In other words, if zero net outside force acts on an object, it will do one of two things:
This is just a description of an object which is equilibrium! Thus, Newton's First Law of Motion applies ONLY to objects which are in mechanical equilibrium. Click HERE if you would like to review mechanical equilibrium.
Newton's First Law of Motion states that if zero net (total) outside force acts on an object (or on a system of objects), the object will not accelerate. In other words, if zero net outside force acts on an object, it will do one of two things:
- it will stay at rest if it is already at rest, or
- it will move in a straight line at a constant speed if it is already moving.
This is just a description of an object which is equilibrium! Thus, Newton's First Law of Motion applies ONLY to objects which are in mechanical equilibrium. Click HERE if you would like to review mechanical equilibrium.
Do you think you know everything there is to know about forces and equilibrium? Take the self-quiz below to see.
Can Nina Be In Equilibrium? Self-Quiz
Scroll to the top of the page and read before attempting the quiz.
- Two forces are exerted on Nina, and the two forces do NOT point in opposite directions. Is it possible to adjust the magnitudes of the two forces so that Nina is in equilibrium?
- Yes.
- No.