Distinguish between centripetal and centrifugal force.
Difference between centripetal force and centrifugal force:
Centripetal force | Centrifugal force |
1. The centripetal is defined as the force that acts on an object in a curvilinear motion and is defined as a component of the force directed towards the axis of rotation or the center of curvature. | 1. Centrifugal force is defined as the force that results from the inertia of an object and appears to act on the moving object in a circular path directed away from the center in which it is moving. |
2. Centripetal force is a real force. | 2. It is a fictitious force. |
3. Centripetal force is always radially inwards toward the center of the circular path. | 3. The centrifugal force drives the object away from the center. |
4. Example: The rotation of satellites around a planet. | 4. Example: The sensation you have when riding a merry-go-round that makes you want to fly outwards. |