Centrifugal Force Calculator

Calculate the centrifugal force acting on an object moving in a circular path based on its mass, velocity, and radius

Input Parameters

Calculation Results

Calculation Formula

F = m × v²/r

Where:
F = Centrifugal Force (N)
m = Mass of the object (kg)
v = Velocity of the object (m/s)
r = Radius of the circular path (m)

Centrifugal Force Calculator Usage Guide

Learn how to use the Centrifugal Force Calculator and understand the principles behind centrifugal force

What is Centrifugal Force?

Centrifugal force is the apparent outward force that seems to act on an object moving in a circular path. It's important to note that centrifugal force is not a real force but rather an effect of inertia that appears when viewing motion from a rotating reference frame.

How to Use the Calculator

  1. Enter the mass of the object in kilograms (kg)
  2. Enter the velocity of the object in meters per second (m/s)
  3. Enter the radius of the circular path in meters (m)
  4. Click the "Calculate" button to compute the centrifugal force
  5. The result will be displayed in both Newtons (N) and pounds (lbs)

Practical Applications

Centrifugal force calculations are essential in many fields:

  • Automotive engineering (tires on curved roads)
  • Chemical engineering (centrifuges for separation)
  • Aerospace (orbital mechanics)
  • Amusement park rides (merry-go-rounds, roller coasters)
  • Fluid dynamics (spinning drums for water separation)

Example Calculation

If an object with a mass of 10 kg moves at a velocity of 5 m/s in a circular path with a radius of 2 m, the centrifugal force would be:

F = 10 kg × (5 m/s)² / 2 m = 125 N

This means there would be an apparent outward force of 125 Newtons acting on the object.