In: Physics
List and describe three real life situations in which is possible to experience centripetal force.
(1) Riding a cycle in a circular path -
When we ride a cycle around a circular path, the cycle bend towards inward direction of the circular path due to centripetal force. Because of this centripetal force, it is possible to ride the cycle around a circle. This centripetal force is further balanced by the same amount of force which acts opposite to the direction of this force and is called centrifugal force.
(2) Satellite orbiting around the earth -
The satellite orbits around the earth in a circular path due to this centripetal force. This force acts directly inward of the circular path.
(3) Merry-go-round -
The motion of merry-go-round is governed by the centripetal force experienced by the person standing on the merry-go-round.
The magnitude of the centripetal force is given as -
F = m*v^2 / r
where, m = mass of the person
v = linear velocity of the merry-go-round
r = radius of the merry-go-round