Centripetal Force Calculator
Calculate the force needed to maintain circular motion.
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Enter the mass in kilograms, velocity in meters per second, and the radius of the circular path in meters. The calculator instantly shows the centripetal force in Newtons.
About Centripetal Force
Centripetal force keeps an object moving along a curved path. Without it, objects would travel in straight lines. The force equals mass times velocity squared, divided by the radius of curvature. This applies to cars on curves, satellites in orbit, electrons in magnetic fields, and amusement park rides. Understanding centripetal force is key to designing safe roads, stable orbits, and centrifuges.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is centripetal force?
Centripetal force is the net force directed toward the center of a circular path that keeps an object moving in a circle. It is not a separate force but the resultant of forces like tension, gravity, or friction.
What happens if centripetal force is removed?
The object moves in a straight line tangent to the circle at the point where the force was removed, following Newton's first law.
How does speed affect centripetal force?
Centripetal force is proportional to the square of velocity. Doubling the speed requires four times the centripetal force for the same radius.