Difference between Centrifugal Force and Centripetal Force
Centrifugal force and centripetal force are two forces associated with circular motion. Here are the differences between these two forces:
| Aspect | Centripetal Force | Centrifugal Force |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | The force that acts on an object moving in a circular path that is directed towards the center of the circle, keeping the object on its path. | An apparent force that seems to act outward on a body moving in a circle, observed from a rotating frame of reference. |
| Direction | Always directed towards the center of the circle. | Always directed away from the center of the circle. |
| Origin | Real force caused by gravitational pull, tension, or other forces. | Fictitious or pseudo force observed in a rotating reference frame; it does not exist in an inertial frame. |
| Purpose in Circular Motion | Keeps the object moving along the circular path by providing necessary centripetal acceleration. | No actual role in real dynamics; it is a felt force that does not act on the object in an inertial frame. |
| Examples | Gravitational force acting as centripetal force for orbiting planets, friction between the car tires and road in a roundabout. | The feeling of being pushed outward when turning quickly in a car, or the mud flying off a spinning tire. |
| Dependence on Frame of Reference | Observed from inertial frame of reference. | Observed from non-inertial frame of reference. |
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Difference between Centrifugal Force and Centripetal Force
Centrifugal force and centripetal force are two important forces associated with circular motion. Centripetal force pulls objects towards the center of a circle, keeping them in orbit. Centrifugal force appears to push objects away from the center due to their rotation.
In this article, we will learn the difference between centrifugal force and centripetal force in detail.
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