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What is centripetal force?

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Quick answer

Centripetal force is the inward force that keeps an object moving in a circle. Without it, the object would fly off in a straight line. It's what holds a car on a curved road, a ball on a string, and the Moon in orbit around Earth.

Key things to understand

  1. It's the inward force that keeps motion circular.
  2. It always points toward the center of the circle.
  3. Without it, objects move off in a straight line.
  4. Gravity provides it for orbiting moons and planets.

People also ask

What is centripetal force?
The inward force that keeps an object moving along a circular path.
What provides centripetal force?
It depends — tension in a string, friction on a road, or gravity for orbiting bodies.
What's the difference between centripetal and centrifugal force?
Centripetal force is the real inward force; 'centrifugal force' is the apparent outward push you feel.

Part of the guide: Cars, Trains, Planes & Ships →