Skip to main content
Chapter 7 of 14
Chapter Summary

Laws of Motion — Chapter Summary

CBSE · Class 11 · Physics

Summary of Laws of Motion for CBSE Class 11 Physics. Key concepts: The idea that an external, A body remains at rest and Momentum is defined by p =.

125 questions72 flashcards6 formulas & key relations5 concepts

Interactive on Super Tutor

Studying Laws of Motion? Get the full interactive chapter.

Quizzes, flashcards, AI doubt-solver and a step-by-step study plan — built for chapter summary and more.

Free trial, no card needed.

Overview

Motion becomes fully understandable only when the causes of motion are studied. The chapter develops the idea that force, momentum, inertia, friction, action and reaction, conservation of momentum, equilibrium, and circular motion are linked by Newton’s laws. It begins by rejecting the flawed Aristo

Key Concepts

The idea that an external force

The idea that an external force is needed to keep a body in motion is incorrect. In practice, a moving body slows down because friction or other resis

A body remains at rest

A body remains at rest or in uniform straight-line motion unless acted upon by an external force. In simple form, if the net external force is zero, a

Momentum is defined by p =

Momentum is defined by p = mv and is a vector quantity. It depends on both mass and velocity, so heavier or faster bodies have greater momentum.

The rate of change of momentum

The rate of change of momentum is proportional to the applied force and acts in the direction of the force. In SI units, F = dp/dt = ma. The law is ve

Impulse = force × time duration

Impulse = force × time duration = change in momentum. It is important when a large force acts for a very short time, such as in a catch or collision.

Learning Objectives

  • Understand why Aristotelian ideas of motion are incorrect and how Galileo corrected them.
  • State and apply Newton’s first, second, and third laws of motion.
  • Use momentum p = mv and relate force to the rate of change of momentum.
  • Understand impulse as force multiplied by time and equal to change in momentum.
  • Apply conservation of momentum to isolated systems and collisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the important topics in Laws of Motion for CBSE Class 11 Physics?
Key topics in Laws of Motion include Aristotle’s Fallacy and the Law of Inertia, Newton’s First Law and Inertia in Daily Situations, Momentum and Newton’s Second Law, Impulse and Force-Time Relation. Study these first, then practise questions on each for Class 11 exams.
How should I revise Laws of Motion for Class 11 exams?
Learn the core ideas first, then work through the 125 practice questions on Laws of Motion. Revise definitions regularly and use flashcards for quick recall before the exam.

Sources & Official References

Content is aligned to the official syllabus. Refer to the board website for the latest curriculum.

For serious students

Get the full Laws of Motion chapter — start free.

Quizzes, flashcards, an AI doubt solver and a study plan for CBSE Class 11 Physics. Free to start, no card needed.