Centripetal Force Formula

Centripetal force formula

The force that acts on an object moving in a circular orbit and heads toward the centre where the object moves is called centripetal force. 

When an object moves in a circular orbit at a constant velocity, the centripetal force accelerates toward the centre. 

The formula for centripetal force is

F_c = mv² / r

Where

F_c = centripetal force

M= mass

V= velocity

R= radius of the path

Solved examples

A small van weighing 1,250 kg travels on a curve with a radius of 200 m at 50.0 m / s. Calculate centripetal force.

Given parameters  

 Mass = 1,250kg 

 Radius = 200m 

 Velocity = 50.0 m / s

 Substitute the value of the given equation 

 Centripetal force  

 F_c = mv² / r

F_c = (1250) (50²) / 200

F_c = 15.625 N