Centripetal Force Calculator
What is a Centripetal Force Calculator?
A Centripetal Force Calculator is a tool used to determine the force required to keep an object moving in a circular path. This force acts toward the center of the circle and prevents the object from flying outward due to inertia.
Why Use This Calculator?
- To analyze motion in circular tracks (e.g., vehicles on curved roads, roller coasters, planets in orbit).
- To determine the forces needed for safe turns in engineering, aviation, and sports.
- To study rotational dynamics in physics and mechanical systems.
How Does It Work?
Centripetal Force (Fc) is calculated using the formula:

or using angular velocity:

Where:
- Fc = Centripetal Force (Newtons, N)
- m= Mass of the object (kg)
- 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: Calculating safe speeds for cars on curved roads.
- Roller Coasters & Amusement Rides: Ensuring riders experience safe forces.
- Astronomy & Orbital Mechanics: Understanding gravitational forces on planets and satellites.
- Sports Science: Analyzing forces in cycling, racing, and gymnastics.
- Engineering & Robotics: Designing rotating machines, turbines, and robotic arms.