Force and Motion (Newtonian Misconceptions)
- Motion implies a force: The belief that if an object is moving, there must be a
force acting on it in the direction of motion. - No force implies no motion: The idea that if an object is at rest, no forces are
acting on it, or that if forces are balanced, the object must be stationary. - Force is a property of the object: Thinking that an object “has” force or
“carries” force within it (like a fuel), rather than force being an interaction
between two objects. - Velocity is proportional to force: The belief that a constant force is needed to
maintain a constant speed, and that doubling the force will double the speed
(rather than the acceleration). - The “Impetus” Theory: Thinking that a force is “given” to an object (like a
throw) and it gradually “wears off” or is “used up” as the object moves.