Data Source and Methodology
All calculations are based on well-established physics formulas. Visit HyperPhysics for more information. "All calculations are rigorously based on the formulas and data provided by this source."
The Formula Explained
Formula: F_c = \frac{m \cdot v^2}{r}
Glossary of Variables
- Mass (m): The object's mass in kilograms.
- Velocity (v): The object's velocity in meters per second.
- Radius (r): The radius of the circular path in meters.
- Centripetal Force (Fc): The force in newtons.
How It Works: A Step-by-Step Example
Consider an object with a mass of 5 kg, moving at 3 m/s, in a circle of radius 2 m. Using the formula F_c = \frac{m \cdot v^2}{r}, the centripetal force is calculated as follows:
Fc = (5 kg * (3 m/s)^2) / 2 m = 22.5 N
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is centripetal force?
Centripetal force is the force that keeps a body moving in a circular path.
How is centripetal force calculated?
Centripetal force is calculated using the formula F_c = \frac{m \cdot v^2}{r}.
What is the role of mass in centripetal force?
Mass is directly proportional to the centripetal force; as mass increases, the force increases.
Can centripetal force be negative?
No, centripetal force is always positive as it is a magnitude.
What are the units of centripetal force?
Centripetal force is measured in newtons (N).