Centripetal Force

Calculate the inward force required to keep an object moving in a circular path.

Motion Parameters

Mass (m) (kg)

Linear Velocity (v)

Radius (r) (m)

Calculation Results

Radius must be greater than 0

Overview

Centripetal force is the net force that causes an object to follow a curved path. It is always directed toward the center of curvature.

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Pro Tips

Without centripetal force, an object's inertia would cause it to move in a straight line.
In a planetary orbit, gravity provides the centripetal force.
For a car turning on a flat road, friction between the tires and the asphalt provides the force.

Fun Facts

"The word 'centripetal' comes from Latin: 'centrum' (center) and 'petere' (to seek)."
"Isaac Newton was the first to mathematically define this force in his Principia Mathematica."
"High-speed banking on race tracks allows the normal force of the track to help provide centripetal force, allowing higher speeds."

Formula: F = (m × v²) / r

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