EVERYDAY CLARITY
Centripetal Force Calculator
What force keeps a mass moving in a circle at this speed? Enter the stated inputs to calculate this model.
Your result
Centripetal force
N
Result for the values shown.
Calculations run in your browser.
What to enter
| Input | Meaning and units |
|---|---|
| Mass (kg) | Enter mass in kg; use the same basis as the other measurements. |
| Speed (m/s) | Enter speed in m/s; use the same basis as the other measurements. |
| Radius (m) | Enter the radius, which is half the diameter. |
Understanding your result
Read Centripetal force (N) in the units and model stated on this page. The formula force=m*v*v/r defines the relationship; measurement accuracy and model applicability are separate from numerical precision.
Common mistakes
- Entering the diameter where the radius is requested.
Check your calculation
- Use the worked example as a known reference case, then change one input at a time and check the direction and units of the response.
Calculation checks, sources and review limits
What force keeps a mass moving in a circle at this speed?
What force keeps a mass moving in a circle at this speed? Enter the stated inputs to calculate this model.
Common uses
- What force keeps a mass moving in a circle at this speed
How it works
force=m*v*v/r
Worked example
Enter Mass: 2 kg; Speed: 3 m/s; Radius: 3 m. Results: Centripetal force: 6 N.