Question

In circular motion, there must be a centripetal force directed blank the:

a) Away from the center
b) Tangential to the motion
c) Radially outward
d) Toward the center

Answer 1

The centripetal force in circular motion is always directed toward the center of the circular path, and this direction is referred to as 'center-seeking.' It is essential for maintaining the circular motion of an object.

Step-by-step explanation:

In circular motion, the centripetal force is directed toward the center of the circle. This force is necessary to keep an object moving in a circular path and is always directed radially inward. The term centripetal itself means 'center-seeking,' which indicates the direction of this force.

Centripetal acceleration

is the acceleration of an object moving in a circular path, which is also directed radially toward the center of the circle. In the case of a carousel or a car taking a turn, the centripetal force keeps the moving object on its circular path. Without this force, an object in uniform circular motion would move in a straight line outward, tangential to the circle, due to inertia.