Discover how objects resist changes in motion and understand the fundamental property of inertia through interactive demonstrations.
Experiment Info
Select an activity to explore how inertia affects objects in motion
Force Applied:0 N
Mass:0 kg
Acceleration:0 m/s²
Inertia:Low
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Mass: 0.5 kg
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Empty Box
Mass: 0.4 kg
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Mass: 10 kg
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Full Box
Mass: 5 kg
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Explore Inertia Through Activities
Understanding Inertia
What is Inertia?
Inertia is the natural tendency of an object to resist a change in its state of motion or of rest.
If an object is at rest, it tends to remain at rest. If it is moving, it tends to keep moving
with the same speed and in the same direction unless acted upon by an external force.
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Coin & Card Insight
When we flick the card, the coin's inertia keeps it in place momentarily,
allowing it to fall straight into the glass.
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Water Tumbler Insight
Water spills because its inertia resists the circular motion of the tray,
trying to continue in a straight line.
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Mass and Inertia
Heavier objects have more inertia. The mass of an object is a measure of its inertia -
greater mass means greater resistance to change.
🔍 Real-Life Application
Notice how saucers have grooves for placing tea cups? This prevents the cup from toppling
over during sudden jerks - a practical application of understanding inertia! Similarly,
seat belts in vehicles protect us by counteracting our body's inertia during sudden stops.
The Relationship: Mass and Inertia
Quantitatively, the inertia of an object is measured by its mass.
• A football flies away when kicked, but a stone of the same size barely moves
• An empty box is easier to push than a box full of books
• A train has much more inertia than a cart
The mass of an object is a measure of its inertia - more mass means more resistance to change in motion.