Centripetal Force

Centripetal force is the force that keeps an object moving in a circular path. It is always directed towards the center of the circle. This force allows an object to continuously change direction without changing its speed.

Key Concepts

• Centripetal Force: The force that keeps an object moving in a circular path.
• Centripetal Acceleration: The acceleration experienced by an object moving in a circular path, directed towards the center of the circle.
• Centripetal Force Equation: Fc = mv^2/r, where Fc is the centripetal force, m is the mass of the object, v is the velocity, and r is the radius of the circular path.
• Examples of Centripetal Force: Examples include the gravitational force that keeps planets in orbit around the Sun, the tension in a string that keeps a ball moving in a horizontal circle, and the frictional force on a car's tires as it rounds a curve.

Study Guide

Here are some key points to remember when studying centripetal force:

1. Understand the concept of centripetal force and how it is related to circular motion.
2. Be able to calculate the centripetal force using the equation Fc = mv^2/r.
3. Identify and explain examples of centripetal force in real-life situations.
4. Understand the relationship between centripetal force and centripetal acceleration.
5. Be able to differentiate between centripetal force and centrifugal force.

Further Resources

For further study, you can refer to your textbook, online resources, and interactive simulations to deepen your understanding of centripetal force.