Centrifugal force

Definition

Centrifugal force is a fictitious force that appears to act on an object moving in a circular path when viewed from a rotating reference frame. It acts outwardly away from the center of rotation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Centrifugal force is not a real force but rather an apparent force observed in a non-inertial (rotating) frame of reference.
2. It is equal in magnitude and opposite in direction to the centripetal force, which keeps an object moving in a circular path.
3. The formula for centrifugal force is $F_c = m \omega^2 r$, where $m$ is mass, $\omega$ is angular velocity, and $r$ is the radius of the circular path.
4. Centrifugal force helps explain phenomena like why passengers feel pushed outward when taking a sharp turn in a car.
5. This concept is crucial for understanding non-inertial frames and the forces experienced within them.

Review Questions

• What distinguishes centrifugal force from centripetal force?
• In what type of reference frame does centrifugal force appear to act?
• How can you calculate centrifugal force using mass, angular velocity, and radius?

Related terms

Centripetal Force: The real inward-directed force required to keep an object moving in a circular path.

Non-inertial Frame: A reference frame that is accelerating or rotating, where fictitious forces like centrifugal force appear.

Coriolis Force: A fictitious force experienced by objects moving within a rotating reference frame, acting perpendicular to the object's velocity.