1. Circular Motion
And Centripetal Force

2. Centripetal Acceleration
When an object changes direction it is accelerating Objects moving in a circle are therefore Accelerating. The direction of this acceleration is toward the center of that circle…. So its called.. Centripetal Acceleration! The magnitude is given by: (copy formula)

3. Centripetal Force
Of Course for there to be an acceleration there must be a force, Centripetal Force! Also directed to the center of the circle. It is given by: (Copy formula) Centripetal force is not a force that exists on its own. It is a “role” that another force “plays.”

4. Example of Circular Motion What provides the Centripetal force A planet orbits the Sun Gravity A car rounds a turn Friction between tires and on a level road the road A stopper is spun around Tension in the string on a string Spin-out at magic mountain Normal Force

5. Experiencing circular motion
If you are in a turning car or on a ride like “spin out” it will feel as if a force is pushing you away from the center of the motion. This is often called “Centrifugal Force” but it is not a force….its your inertia!