Centripetal Force
Centripetal Force
Circular motion needs a constant inward (centripetal) force; without it the body flies off on a tangent.
The centripetal force is F = m·v²/r. where m is the mass, v the speed and r the radius of the path.
Inputs
m := 900 kg=900 kg
v := 15 m/s=15 m/s
r := 40 m=40 m
Apply the centripetal-force formula.
F := m·v^2/r=5062.5 N
Results
The force rises with the square of speed and falls with radius — tight, fast turns demand large forces, which is why cornering grip and banking matter.
Assumptions & limitations
- Uniform circular motion at constant speed.
- Rigid body.
- Force directed to the centre.