The Magic of Science: Exploring Newton's Laws of Motion

What makes an object at rest stay at rest according to Newton's first law of motion?

A. External force
B. Inertia
C. Friction
D. Mass

Answer:

B. Inertia

Newton's first law of motion, also known as the law of inertia, states that an object at rest will stay at rest unless acted upon by an external force. This means that the inertia of an object, which is its tendency to resist changes in its state of motion, keeps it in its current state. In the case of the magician pulling a tablecloth out from under dishes and glasses on a table without disturbing them, the objects on the table exhibit inertia by staying in place due to their mass.

When the magician pulls the tablecloth, the friction between the tablecloth and the table provides an external force that is strong enough to move the tablecloth but not disturb the objects on top, showcasing Newton's first law of motion in action.

Understanding these fundamental principles of motion allows us to explain and appreciate the magic behind seemingly impossible tricks!