Recent content by GiorgioPastore

I think the simplest way to get the result is by using the triangle with sides 2, 11, and AB in the modified figure below. The length of segment AB is twice the height of an equilateral triangle of side x, and the angle between the side of length 2 and that of length 11 is ##2 \pi/3##. From the...

Opinions, like definitions, are not right or wrong. They can be useful or useless. From my experience in teaching Physics, I can say that names, although they do not modify Science, do play a role in the learning process. Some names do not help to grasp the concept. Who, staying at the normal...

It is not a problem for me. It is a problem for people who translate "fictitious forces" as "illusion" without further explanation. The problem exists, as evidenced by the original post in this thread.

Using inertia in place of mass is another confusing thing for beginners. Moreover, historically, the term "vis inertiae" is different. Newton conceived of "inertia" as "the innate force possessed by an object which resists changes in motion", Among "pseudoforce" and "fictitious," there is an...

It doesn't matter to somebody, no problem. Other people, mostly those who are involved in teaching Physics, understand the difference.

"Interaction force" is clear. "Inertial force" for something appearing only in NON-inertial reference frames sounds like an oxymoron. My favourite choice is "pseudoforce".

Unfortunately, quite often in Physics, words have a different meaning than in ordinary language. This is an additional problem for learners. The idea that fictitious forces are a kinda of illusion is quite widespread. At the core of the problem lies the often-overlooked issue of defining force...