Linear Motion and Forces

A set of flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to linear motion, vectors, projectile motion, and Newton's laws of motion.

Kinematics

The study of motion of an object.

Vector

Quantity with both magnitude and direction (e.g., velocity).

Scalar

Quantity that has magnitude only (e.g., speed).

Displacement

The shortest length traveled; a vector quantity.

Distance

Total length traveled; a scalar quantity.

Speed

Rate at which you travel, a scalar quantity.

Acceleration

Rate of change of speed or velocity; a vector quantity.

Free Fall

Motion of an object under the influence of gravity only.

Projectile Motion

The motion of an object that is thrown into the air and is subject to gravity.

Newton’s First Law

An object in motion stays in motion unless acted upon by a net force.

Newton’s Second Law

The acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the net force acting on it and inversely proportional to its mass (F=ma).

Newton’s Third Law

For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.

Static Friction

Friction acting on an object that is not in motion.

Kinetic Friction

Friction acting on an object that is in motion.

Centripetal Force

Net force that keeps an object moving in a circular path.

Resultant Vector

The final vector after adding two or more vectors.

Magnitude

The size or quantity of a vector.

Component Method

A method of adding vectors by breaking them down into their x and y components.