Grade 12 · Physics
Uniform circular motion
Why it matters
Centripetal force.
Advanced20m readingPrerequisite: None
What is centripetal force?
Short answer
Centripetal force is the net inward force that keeps an object moving along a circular path, always directed toward the centre of the circle. Its magnitude is F = mv²/r, where m is mass, v is speed, and r is the radius. It is not a new kind of force — gravity, tension, or friction can each act as the centripetal force in a given situation.
🔒
This feature is available in the School Plan.
Upgrade to unlock the full lesson, examples, quiz and practice.
Upgrade PlanRelated topics
Frequently asked questions
- Is centripetal force a separate force?
- No. It is the name for whatever net inward force causes circular motion — often gravity, tension, or friction.
- What is centrifugal force?
- An apparent outward force felt in a rotating frame; it is not a real force acting on the object in an inertial frame.