- The weight of an object is the force of gravity acting on it, calculated as W = m × g, where m is mass and g is gravitational acceleration (approximately 9.8 m/s² on Earth).
- Mass is a measure of the amount of matter in an object and does not change with location; weight depends on gravity and varies with location.
- Friction opposes motion between surfaces; static friction prevents motion from starting, while kinetic friction acts on moving objects.
- An object is in equilibrium when the net force acting on it is zero, meaning it is either at rest or moving at constant velocity.
- Newton’s First Law states that an object at rest stays at rest and an object in motion stays in motion unless acted upon by a net external force.
- Newton’s Second Law relates force, mass, and acceleration: F = m × a.
- Newton’s Third Law states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.
- When an object is on a table, the normal force from the table balances the object’s weight, resulting in zero net vertical force.
- For an object moving at constant speed, the net force is zero because acceleration is zero (F = m × 0 = 0).
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of friction worksheet middle school.