Centripetal acceleration calculator
What is a Centripetal Acceleration Calculator?
A Centripetal Acceleration Calculator is a tool used to determine the acceleration required to keep an object moving in a circular path at a constant speed. This acceleration is always directed toward the center of the circular path.
Why Use This Calculator?
- To analyze motion in circular tracks, such as vehicles on curved roads or roller coasters.
- To calculate the forces acting on satellites, planets, and rotating objects.
- To determine the safety limits of high-speed turns in sports, aviation, and engineering.
How Does It Work?
Centripetal acceleration (aca_c a c ) is given by the formula:

or using angular velocity:

Where:
- ac = Centripetal acceleration (m/s²)
- v = Linear speed of the object (m/s)
- r = Radius of the circular path (m)
- ω = Angular velocity (rad/s)
The calculator can solve for:

When is This Calculator Used?
- Vehicle Dynamics: Determining safe speeds for cars on curved roads.
- Roller Coasters & Amusement Rides: Ensuring riders experience safe acceleration.
- Orbital Mechanics & Astronomy: Calculating forces on satellites and planets.
- Sports Science: Analyzing forces in cycling, racing, and gymnastics.