Chapter 10: Motion and measurement of distances
These NCERT Class 6 Science Chapter 10 notes explain the basic idea of motion and how distances are measured in daily life. The chapter introduces students to different types of motion such as rectilinear, circular, and periodic motion using simple examples.
NCERT Class 6 Science Chapter 10 – Motion and Measurement of Distances also explains why measurement is important and how people earlier used non-standard units like hand span and footstep. It highlights the need for standard units to ensure accuracy and uniformity.
This chapter builds the foundation for understanding physics concepts related to movement, distance, and measurement.
1. Meaning of motion
- Motion means a change in position of an object with time
- If an object changes its place, it is said to be in motion
- Motion can be observed in many daily activities
- Moving objects cover distance over time
- Moving bus, flying bird, flowing water show motion
2. Types of motion
- Objects can move in different ways
- Motion can be along a straight line
- Motion can be along a circular path
- Some motions repeat after fixed time
- Classification helps in easy understanding of motion
3. Rectilinear motion
- Rectilinear motion is motion along a straight line
- Direction of movement remains the same
- Distance covered is along a straight path
- Train on a straight track shows rectilinear motion
- Many daily movements are rectilinear
4. Circular motion
- Circular motion is motion along a circular path
- Distance is covered around a fixed centre
- Direction of motion keeps changing
- Hands of a clock show circular motion
- A stone tied to a string and rotated shows circular motion
5. Periodic motion
- Periodic motion repeats itself after a fixed interval of time
- The motion follows a regular pattern
- Time taken for each cycle is same
- Pendulum shows periodic motion
- Swing is also an example of periodic motion
6. Non-motion or rest
- If an object does not change its position, it is at rest
- Rest depends on the observer
- An object at rest has no motion
- Book kept on a table is at rest
- Rest and motion are relative terms
7. Measurement of distance
- Measurement means comparing an unknown quantity with a known standard
- Distance tells us how far an object has moved
- Measurement helps in accuracy and comparison
- Without measurement, results are uncertain
- Standard measurement is important in science
8. Non-standard units
- In old times, people used hand span, footstep, cubit
- These units differed from person to person
- Measurements were not accurate
- Results created confusion
- Non-standard units were unreliable
9. Standard units of measurement
- To avoid confusion, standard units were adopted
- The SI unit of length is metre (m)
- Smaller units include centimetre (cm) and millimetre (mm)
- Larger distances are measured in kilometre (km)
- Standard units give same result everywhere
10. Measuring instruments
- Metre scale is used to measure small lengths
- Scale should be placed along the object
- Zero mark should be properly aligned
- Kilometre is used to measure distance between cities
- Correct instrument gives correct measurement
11. Correct measurement practices
- Measurement should start from the zero mark
- If zero mark is broken, start from another mark
- Initial reading should be subtracted
- Scale should be placed straight
- Proper method avoids errors
12. Importance of this chapter
- Helps understand motion in daily life
- Explains the need for standard units
- Builds base for physics
- Useful for understanding mechanics
- Important for NCERT, BPSC, and UPSC foundation
13. Important keywords and definitions
- Motion: Change in position of an object with time
- Rectilinear motion: Motion along a straight line
- Circular motion: Motion along a circular path
- Periodic motion: Motion that repeats after fixed time intervals
- Measurement: Comparing an unknown quantity with a known standard
- Metre: SI unit of length
- SI unit: Standard unit accepted internationally for measurement
Understanding NCERT Class 6 Science Chapter 10 is important to learn how objects move and how distances are measured correctly. The chapter helps students connect science with real-life observations like moving vehicles and measuring lengths.
The ideas discussed in Motion and Measurement of Distances prepare students for future topics in mechanics and physics.
Continue reading NCERT Class 6 Science Chapter 11 – Light, Shadows and Reflections to understand the behaviour of light.
FAQs
Q1. What is motion according to NCERT Class 6 Science Chapter 10?
Motion is the change in position of an object with time.
Q2. What are the types of motion?
Rectilinear motion, circular motion, and periodic motion are the main types.
Q3. Why are standard units of measurement important?
They provide accurate and same results everywhere.
Q4. What is the SI unit of length?
The SI unit of length is metre.
Q5. Why is this chapter important for exams?
It explains basic physics concepts of motion and measurement, useful for school exams and BPSC foundation.
