Newton's First Law
What Newton's First Law means in Combined Science GCSE, as defined for AQA.
Definitions of Newton's First Law
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Newton's First Law in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
Without a resultant force, velocity cannot change, so the object continues at constant velocity in a straight line.
A body continues at constant velocity unless acted on by a resultant force.
If the resultant force on an object is zero, its velocity does not change.
Topics that use Newton's First Law
- Newton's First Law (AQA GCSE)
Related terms
- Acceleration
- Balanced forces
- Constant velocity
- Resultant force
- Velocity
- Velocity as a vector
- Acceleration and change of direction
- Balanced and unbalanced forces
Using Newton's First Law in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Combined Science questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge