Question

ewton’s first law of motion was a giant leap forward in scientific thought during Newton’s time. Even today, the idea is sometimes difficult at first for people to understand.

Which statement is the best example of an object and motion that would make it hard for people to accept Newton’s first law?

A rolling ball eventually slows down and comes to a stop.
A wagon must be pushed before it begins to move.
The heavier the load in a cart, the harder the cart is to turn.
A box does not move when pushed equally from opposite sides.

Answer 1

A rolling ball eventually slows down and comes to a stop.

Explanation: Newton’s first law says an object in motion will keep moving at constant velocity unless a net external force acts on it. A rolling ball appears to stop on its own, which seems to contradict that law. In reality friction and air resistance are the external forces causing it to slow, but that everyday observation made it hard for people to accept the idea of motion without a continuous push.