# Centripetal Force Calculator (F = mv²/r)

Calculate centripetal force for circular motion using F = mv²/r. Find centripetal acceleration, angular velocity, and period.

## What this calculates

Centripetal force is the net inward force that keeps an object moving in a circular path. Without it, the object would fly off in a straight line due to inertia. This calculator computes the centripetal force, centripetal acceleration, angular velocity, and orbital period for uniform circular motion.

## Inputs

- **Mass** (kg) — min 0
- **Velocity** (m/s) — min 0
- **Radius of Circular Path** (m) — min 0

## Outputs

- **Centripetal Force** (N) — F = mv²/r
- **Centripetal Acceleration** (m/s²) — a = v²/r
- **Angular Velocity** (rad/s) — ω = v/r
- **Period** (s) — Time for one complete revolution: T = 2πr/v

## Frequently Asked Questions

**Q: What is centripetal force?**

A: Centripetal force is the net force directed toward the center of a circular path that keeps an object moving in a circle. It is not a new type of force, but rather the name for whatever force provides the inward pull, such as tension in a string, gravity for orbiting bodies, or friction for a car turning a corner.

**Q: What is the difference between centripetal and centrifugal force?**

A: Centripetal force is the real inward force that causes circular motion. Centrifugal force is a fictitious (or pseudo) force that appears in a rotating reference frame. From the perspective of a passenger in a turning car, it feels like they are being pushed outward (centrifugal), but in reality, the car seat is pushing them inward (centripetal).

**Q: Why does centripetal force depend on velocity squared?**

A: As an object moves faster in a circle, it needs to change direction more rapidly, requiring a stronger inward force. The v² dependence means doubling the speed quadruples the required centripetal force. This is why sharp turns at high speed are dangerous.

**Q: What provides centripetal force for planets orbiting the Sun?**

A: Gravity provides the centripetal force for planetary orbits. The gravitational pull of the Sun keeps planets moving in approximately circular (actually elliptical) paths. Setting the gravitational force equal to centripetal force (GMm/r² = mv²/r) allows you to derive orbital velocities and periods.

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Source: https://vastcalc.com/calculators/physics/centripetal-force
Category: Physics
Last updated: 2026-04-21