Nikon 18-55mm lens-Should the zoom dial feel like it has notches in it?

I recently bought a Nikon D3100, It came standard with the 18-55mm VR lens. I noticed as I use the zoom dial, it feels like it has notches in it or something. It's not completely smooth all the way across… Is this normal? Should I send it back for a replacement?

Take your camera and lens into a proper camera store and ask them

Your description is really different than any zoom lens made in the past 30 years.

It could have some sand in it theoretically

Mine is smooth > send yours back or take it to a proper service center

Yes, send it back. Contact the vendor to get a return authorization.

I think you have set it on "AF" mode and dialing the zoom manually. If it is, you have broken your lens.