Final Answer:
Centripetal force is the key factor in circular motion, pulling objects toward the center. Mathematically expressed as
�
�
=
�
�
2
�
F
c
=
r
mv
2
, it counteracts inertia and maintains the object's curved trajectory. The term "centrifugal" is a misnomer, often used colloquially but lacking a genuine outward force in physics.
Step-by-step explanation:
Centrifugal and centripetal forces are terms used in physics to describe the direction of forces acting on an object in circular motion. The choice between centrifugal and centripetal depends on the perspective from which the forces are considered. In this case, the correct answer is centripetal.
The centripetal force is the force that acts towards the center of a circular path and is responsible for keeping an object in circular motion. It is always directed inward and is mathematically represented as (F_c = frac{mv2}{r}), where (F_c) is the centripetal force, (m) is the mass of the object,(v) is its velocity, and (r) is the radius of the circular path. This force is necessary to counteract the tendency of an object to move in a straight line due to its inertia.
Conversely, the term "centrifugal" is often used in a non-scientific context to describe an apparent outward force experienced by an object in circular motion. However, this is a misnomer, as there is no actual outward force. Instead, what is perceived as centrifugal force is the result of inertia—the tendency of an object to continue in its current state of motion. Thus, the correct and physics-based answer to the question is centripetal, as it accurately reflects the force responsible for maintaining circular motion.