Examples of Inertia

 Inertia of Rest

(Tendency of a body to remain at rest)

• A book placed on a table stays there until someone moves it.
• Passengers lean backward when a bus suddenly starts moving.
• Dust comes out when a carpet is beaten.
• Fruits fall when a tree branch is shaken.
• Dishes remain in place when a tablecloth is quickly pulled.

Inertia of Motion

(Tendency of a body to continue in motion)

• Passengers fall forward when a moving bus suddenly stops.
• A rolling ball continues moving until friction stops it.
• A cyclist keeps moving forward even after stopping pedaling.
• Luggage on a car roof moves forward if the car stops suddenly.
• A person jumping from a moving vehicle falls forward.