Just started Centripetal Force

In summary, the textbook states that Centripetal Force always points towards the center of a circle and is responsible for the Centripetal acceleration. This is necessary to keep an object or particle moving in a circular path. The diagram provided in the textbook shows that Fc (centripetal force) is equal to the friction force, but the reason for this depends on the context. In the case of a car rounding a curve on a level road, the centripetal force will equal the static friction if the car is traveling at a speed just before slipping. If the car goes too fast, the friction force will not be enough to prevent it from sliding and causing a skid.
  • #1
HelloMotto
74
0
ok the textbook says Centripetal Force always points towards the centre of circle as well as the Centripetal acceleration. But Why?

Also I was given a diagram in the textbook like the one below. I don't understand why
Fc = the friction force...
http://img258.imageshack.us/img258/430/diagram1lh3.png
http://g.imageshack.us/g.php?h=258&i=diagram1lh3.png

could you guys explain this to me please?
 
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  • #2
The force must always point toward the centre of a circle to keep the particle or object moving round in a circle. I don't know why the centripetal force equals the friction force, it depends on the context. Could you give more information?
 
  • #3
thank you.
that diagram i posted comes from a question related to car that is rounding a curve on a level road.
 
  • #4
In that case the centripetal force will equal the static friction when the car is going round the curve at a speed just before slipping. If you go round a curve too fast the friction will not be enough to keep the car from sliding and you will skid off.
 

1. What is centripetal force?

Centripetal force is a force that acts on an object moving in a circular path, always directed towards the center of the circle. It is responsible for keeping the object moving in a curved path instead of flying off in a straight line.

2. How is centripetal force different from centrifugal force?

Centripetal force and centrifugal force are often confused, but they are actually two different concepts. Centripetal force is the inward force that keeps an object moving in a circular path, while centrifugal force is the outward force that an object experiences due to its inertia.

3. What are some examples of centripetal force in everyday life?

Some examples of centripetal force in everyday life include the centripetal force of Earth's gravity keeping planets in orbit around the sun, the centripetal force of a car's tires on a curved road, and the centripetal force of a string attached to a ball being swung in a circle.

4. How is centripetal force calculated?

The formula for calculating centripetal force is F = mv²/r, where F is the force, m is the mass of the object, v is the velocity, and r is the radius of the circular path. This formula is derived from Newton's second law of motion, which states that force is equal to mass multiplied by acceleration.

5. Why is understanding centripetal force important?

Understanding centripetal force is important for many reasons. It helps us explain and predict the motion of objects in circular paths, such as planets in orbit or objects on a Ferris wheel. It is also essential for designing and engineering systems that involve circular motion, such as roller coasters, centrifuges, and even sports equipment like a spinning frisbee.

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