Centripetal force
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Centripetal force is a force that is directed perpendicular to the velocity of an object traveling in a circular path towards the center of the circle.[1]
The centripetal force is a required force to maintain a velocity in constant speed as it travels in a circular path. The direction of the force is inward, toward the center of the circular path.
The requirement of a centripetal force for such an object can be satisfied by a gravitational, electromagnetic, or any other type of force.
"Centripetal" is a term derived from the Latin words centrum (meaning "center") and petere (meaning "tend towards").
References
- ↑ Wile, Dr. Jay L. Exploring Creation With Physical Science. Apologia Educational Ministries, Inc. 1999, 2000