Topic 1: Introduction to Laws of Motion

Introduction to Laws of Motion

The Laws of Motion were proposed by Sir Isaac Newton. These laws describe the relationship between force, mass and motion of an object.

The laws of motion help us understand why objects remain at rest, start moving, stop moving, or change their direction of motion. They form the foundation of classical mechanics.

Importance of Laws of Motion

  • Explain the motion of objects in everyday life
  • Used in engineering, transportation and mechanics
  • Help in understanding motion of vehicles, machines and planets

What is Motion?

Motion is the change in position of an object with respect to time and a reference point.

What is Force?

A force is a push or pull that can change:

  • The state of rest or motion of an object
  • The speed of an object
  • The direction of motion
  • The shape of an object

Types of Forces

  • Contact Forces: Friction, tension, normal reaction
  • Non-contact Forces: Gravitational, magnetic, electrostatic

Newton’s Laws of Motion

There are three laws of motion which explain the effect of force on motion.

  • First Law: Law of Inertia
  • Second Law: Relation between force, mass and acceleration
  • Third Law: Action and reaction
Q1. Laws of motion were given by:
A) Galileo
B) Newton
C) Einstein
D) Kepler

Answer: B


Q2. Motion is defined as:
A) Change in speed only
B) Change in position with time
C) Change in direction only
D) Change in shape

Answer: B


Q3. A force can change:
A) Only speed
B) Only shape
C) Only direction
D) State of motion, speed, direction and shape

Answer: D


Q4. Which of the following is a non-contact force?
A) Friction
B) Tension
C) Normal reaction
D) Gravitational force

Answer: D


Q5. Which field of physics mainly deals with laws of motion?
A) Thermodynamics
B) Optics
C) Mechanics
D) Electromagnetism

Answer: C


Q6. Which of the following is NOT an effect of force?
A) Change in motion
B) Change in shape
C) Change in colour
D) Change in direction

Answer: C

Topic 1: Introduction – Quick Revision

1. Laws of Motion

The laws of motion were proposed by Sir Isaac Newton. They describe the relationship between force, mass and motion.

2. Branch of Physics

The laws of motion are studied under classical mechanics.

3. Motion

Motion is defined as the change in position of an object with respect to time and a reference point.

4. Force

A force is a push or pull which can change:

  • State of rest or motion
  • Speed of an object
  • Direction of motion
  • Shape of an object

5. Types of Forces

  • Contact Forces: Friction, tension, normal reaction
  • Non-contact Forces: Gravitational, magnetic, electrostatic

6. Importance of Laws of Motion

  • Explain motion of bodies in daily life
  • Used in vehicles, machines and engineering
  • Foundation for understanding mechanics

7. Newton’s Laws of Motion

  • First Law: Law of inertia
  • Second Law: Relation between force, mass and acceleration
  • Third Law: Action and reaction

Exam Focus (MHT-CET)

Direct MCQs are asked on definition of force, motion, types of forces and identification of contact vs non-contact forces.


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