Centripetal Force Calculator
Centripetal force is the net inward force required to keep an object moving in a circular path at a given speed and radius.
How to use this calculator
- Enter mass, tangential speed and the radius of the circular path using SI units.
- Check the labels and units before applying the result to a real task.
- Change one input at a time when comparing scenarios.
Formula and method
F = mv²/r; aᶜ = v²/r
- F = mv²/r; aᶜ = v²/r
- The value is a required net force, not a guarantee that a real rope, tire, track or structure can safely provide it.
Worked examples
Worked example
A 2 kg object travels at 10 m/s around a circle of radius 5 m.
The centripetal acceleration is 10²/5 = 20 m/s² and required inward force is 2×20 = 40 N.
The centripetal acceleration is 10²/5 = 20 m/s² and required inward force is 2×20 = 40 N.
Understanding the result
Centripetal force is the net inward force required to keep an object moving in a circular path at a given speed and radius.
The value is a required net force, not a guarantee that a real rope, tire, track or structure can safely provide it.
Important notes
The value is a required net force, not a guarantee that a real rope, tire, track or structure can safely provide it.
Displayed values are rounded for readability; retain appropriate precision when continuing a calculation.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if speed doubles?
At the same mass and radius, required centripetal force becomes four times as large because speed is squared.
Is centripetal force a separate kind of force?
It describes the net inward force requirement. Tension, friction, gravity or another physical force may provide it in a particular situation.
Why must radius be positive?
The formula divides by radius, and a circular path needs a non-zero radius.
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Related explanations
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This page provides a calculation tool plus explanatory information so you can understand what the result means and when the underlying method may not fit your situation.