Question

How to find the magnitude of the centripetal force?

Answer 1

The magnitude of the centripetal force can be found using the equations Fc = mv²/r or Fc = mrω², which relate the force required to keep an object moving in a circular path to its mass, speed, and radius of curvature.

Step-by-step explanation:

The magnitude of the centripetal force can be found using either of two expressions: Fc = mv²/r or Fc = mrω², where m is the mass, v is the tangential speed, r is the radius, and ω is the angular speed. These equations relate the force required to keep an object moving in a circular path to its mass, speed, and radius of curvature.

Answer 2

Centripetal force is easily calculated as long as you know the mass, m, of the object; its distance, r, from the center; and the tangential velocity, v. This equation is based on the metric system; note that the centripetal force, f, is measured in Newtons. One Newton is approximately 0.225 lb.