Centrifugal Force Calculator
Calculate centrifugal force for rotating objects using mass, velocity, and radius
Calculate Centrifugal Force
Mass of the rotating object
Distance from the center of rotation
Tangential velocity of the object
Centrifugal Force Results
Formula used: F = mv²/r
Input values: m = 0.000 kg, v = 0.00 m/s, r = 0.000 m
Angular velocity: ω = 0.000 rad/s = 0.0 rpm
Force Analysis
Example Calculation
Car Taking a Turn
Car mass: 1,000 kg
Speed: 50 km/h (13.89 m/s)
Turn radius: 150 m
Calculation
F = mv²/r
F = 1000 × (13.89)² / 150
F = 1000 × 192.93 / 150
F = 1,286 N
Centrifugal vs Centripetal Force
Centrifugal Force
Outward force (fictitious)
Experienced in rotating frame
Centripetal Force
Inward force (real)
Required for circular motion
Applications
Centrifuge design and operation
Vehicle dynamics and turning
Rotating machinery design
Amusement park ride safety
Satellite and orbital mechanics
Understanding Centrifugal Force
What is Centrifugal Force?
Centrifugal force is the inertial force that appears to act on objects in a rotating reference frame. It is directed outward from the center of rotation and is felt by objects undergoing circular motion. While not a "real" force in the inertial frame, it's very real to observers in the rotating system.
Key Characteristics
- •Proportional to mass and velocity squared
- •Inversely proportional to radius
- •Acts radially outward from rotation center
- •Equal in magnitude to centripetal force
Mathematical Formula
F = mv²/r
- F: Centrifugal force (Newtons)
- m: Mass of the object (kg)
- v: Linear velocity (m/s)
- r: Radius of rotation (m)
Alternative Formula: F = mω²r, where ω is angular velocity in rad/s
Real-World Examples
Washing Machine
Water is forced outward during the spin cycle
Car Turning
Passengers feel pushed to the outside of the turn
Laboratory Centrifuge
Separates substances based on density differences
Engineering Considerations
Material Strength
Components must withstand centrifugal stresses
Safety Factors
Design margins for unexpected force increases
Balance Requirements
Unbalanced masses create additional forces