1. What is Centripetal Force?

Centripetal force is the force that keeps an object moving in a circular path, directed toward the center around which the object is moving. It's essential for circular motion and is not a separate force but rather provided by forces like tension, gravity, or friction.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the centripetal force equation:

Where:

• \( F \) — Centripetal force (newtons)
• \( m \) — Mass of the object (kilograms)
• \( v \) — Velocity of the object (meters per second)
• \( r \) — Radius of the circular path (meters)

Explanation: The force required to keep an object moving in a circle increases with mass and the square of velocity, but decreases with larger radius.

3. Applications of Centripetal Force

Details: Centripetal force is crucial in many real-world applications including:

• Planetary orbits (provided by gravity)
• Amusement park rides like roller coasters
• Vehicle turning on curved roads (provided by friction)
• Atomic physics (electrons orbiting nuclei)

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter mass in kilograms, velocity in meters per second, and radius in meters. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is centripetal force a real force?
A: Centripetal force is the name we give to the net force causing circular motion, but it's always provided by real forces like tension, gravity, or friction.

Q2: What's the difference between centripetal and centrifugal force?
A: Centripetal force is real and directed inward, while centrifugal force is a fictitious force that appears to act outward in a rotating reference frame.

Q3: Why does velocity appear squared in the equation?
A: Because both the momentum change and the time interval for that change depend linearly on velocity, resulting in a v² relationship.

Q4: What happens if centripetal force suddenly disappears?
A: The object will move in a straight line tangent to its former circular path (Newton's first law).

Q5: Can this equation be used for planetary motion?
A: Yes, when combined with Newton's law of gravitation, it can describe planetary orbits.