inertial force

noun

1. an imaginary force which an accelerated observer postulates so that he can use the equations appropriate to an inertial observer See also Coriolis force

inertial force

/ ĭ-nûr′shəl /

1. An apparent force that appears to affect bodies within a non-inertial frame, but is absent from the point of view of an inertial frame. Centrifugal forces and Coriolis forces, both observed in rotating systems, are inertial forces. Inertial forces are proportional to the body's mass.
2. See also General Relativity

Example Sentences

“That base is able to handle the inertial force of the arm plus the box swinging at a fast weight, without having to rely on a several-thousand kilo steel plate bolted to the floor.”

From The Verge

As the water spins, the inertial force generates a pressure gradient steep enough to maintain a high vacuum at the centre of the gripper, while the pressure at the boundary remains equal to the atmospheric pressure.

From Nature

As the knot loosens, swinging legs apply an inertial force on the free ends of the laces and — voilà! — pretty soon your laces are flopping around, looking like overcooked spaghetti.

From Seattle Times

As the knot loosens, swinging legs apply an inertial force on the free ends of the laces and — voilà! — pretty soon your laces are flopping around, looking like overcooked spaghetti.

From New York Times

As the knot loosens, the swinging leg applies an inertial force on the free ends of the laces, leading to rapid unravelling in as little as two strides.

From BBC