๐ŸŽกap physics 1 review

Inertial Frame of Reference

Written by the Fiveable Content Team โ€ข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโ€ขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โ€ข Last updated September 2025

Definition

An inertial frame of reference is a coordinate system in which Newton's first law holds true. In other words, if an object is not subjected to any external forces, it will either remain at rest or move with constant velocity in an inertial frame.

"Inertial Frame of Reference" also found in: