1. What is Centripetal Force?

Definition: Centripetal force is the force required to keep an object moving in a circular path at constant speed.

Purpose: This calculator helps determine the inward force needed for circular motion based on mass, velocity, and radius.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( F \) — Centripetal force (Newtons, N)
• \( m \) — Mass of the object (kilograms, kg)
• \( v \) — Velocity of the object (meters per second, m/s)
• \( r \) — Radius of the circular path (meters, m)

Explanation: The force increases with mass and the square of velocity, but decreases with larger radius.

3. Importance of Centripetal Force

Details: Understanding centripetal force is crucial in designing roads, roller coasters, and analyzing planetary orbits.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the mass in kg, velocity in m/s, and radius in m. All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What provides centripetal force in different situations?
A: Tension (in a string), friction (for cars turning), gravity (for orbits), or normal force (in rotating devices).

Q2: How does velocity affect the force?
A: Force increases with the square of velocity - double the speed requires 4x the force.

Q3: What happens if centripetal force is insufficient?
A: The object will move in a straighter path (greater radius) or break from circular motion.

Q4: Is centripetal force a real force?
A: It's the name for the net force causing circular motion, not a separate force type.

Q5: How does this relate to centrifugal force?
A: Centrifugal force is a fictitious force that appears in rotating reference frames.