Question

Formula for centripetal acceleration (uniform circular motion)

a) a_c = v^2/r
b) a_c = r/v
c) a_c = F/m
d) a_c = m/F

Answer 1

The correct formula for centripetal acceleration in uniform circular motion is ac = v2/r, and is always directed towards the center of the circular path.

Step-by-step explanation:

The formula for centripetal acceleration (ac) in uniform circular motion is ac = v2/r, where v is the tangential speed and r is the radius of the circle. This acceleration is directed toward the center of the circle, hence the term 'centripetal', which means 'center-seeking'. Another formula for centripetal acceleration is in terms of angular velocity: ac = rω2, where ω is the angular velocity.

Any net force causing uniform circular motion is a centripetal force and has a relationship with centripetal acceleration according to Newton's second law: Fc = m·ac, with m being the mass of the object in motion.