Advertisement

Advertisement

inertial mass

noun

, Physics.
  1. the mass of a body as determined by the second law of motion from the acceleration of the body when it is subjected to a force that is not due to gravity.
  2. the measure of the property of inertia. Compare Eötvös experiment, inertia ( def 2a ), gravitational mass.


inertial mass

noun

  1. the mass of a body as determined by its momentum, as opposed to gravitational mass. The acceleration of a falling body is inversely proportional to its inertial mass but directly proportional to its gravitational mass: as all falling bodies have the same constant acceleration the two types of mass must be equal


Discover More

Compare Meanings

How does inertial mass compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

Discover More

Example Sentences

Inertial mass is the amount of matter in an object, the measure of the resistance an object has when a force pushes it.

Advertisement

Word of the Day

axolotl

[ak-suh-lot-l ]

Meaning and examples

Start each day with the Word of the Day in your inbox!

By clicking "Sign Up", you are accepting Dictionary.com Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policies.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement


inertial guidanceinertial observer