It is proposed that there is a matrix structure of the universe that persists both in the presence and absence of physical objects, and that chemical reactions involve reorganization of electronic orbitals within this matrix structure. The mechanism by which objects translocate within this matrix is similar to the chemical reaction mechanism, and therefore requires moving objects to cross transition-state energy barriers. This involves an input of energy, which is the origin of inertia and momentum. The matrix concept is used to derive equations of motion that conform to Newton’s laws and include terms for inertia and momentum.