the tendency of the matter to resist change in motion is called?
Inertia!
inertia
Inertia is probably the answer they are looking for, but MASS is the measure of the resistance to change in velocity.
http://www.answers.com/topic/inertia
The tendency of matter to resist change in motion is called inertia. In order to understand this concept better, you can follow these steps to grasp the explanation:
1. Start by understanding the definition of inertia: Inertia is the property of matter that describes its resistance to changes in velocity, whether that be a change in motion (acceleration or deceleration) or a change in direction.
2. Break down the concept of inertia: Inertia can be explained by Isaac Newton's first law of motion, also known as the law of inertia. This law states that an object at rest will remain at rest, and an object in motion will continue moving at a constant velocity, unless acted upon by an external force.
3. Understand the factors affecting inertia: The inertia of an object depends on its mass. The greater the mass, the greater the inertia, and the more resistance it has to changes in motion.
4. Consider some examples: Think about why it is easier to get a small object moving than a larger one. This is because smaller objects have less mass and, therefore, less inertia. Larger objects require more force to overcome their greater inertia.
By following these steps, you can gain a better understanding of the concept of inertia and its significance in resisting changes in motion.