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Centripetal force sources – sources of centripetal forces

In this post, you will find a List of Common circular motions and the sources of centripetal force (in tabular format) for each of these motions.

Any force can be a centripetal force. Centripetal force is an umbrella term given to any force that is acting perpendicular to the motion of an object and thus causing it to go in a circle.

sources of centripetal forces

List of Common circular motions and the sources of centripetal forces:

Circular MotionProvider or source of centripetal force
Whirling rock on a stringThe tension in the string provides the necessary centripetal force
An Electron orbiting nucleus of the atomCentripetal force is provided by the electrical attraction (Coulomb Force) between the electron and the nucleus
Car cornering on the roadCentripetal force is sourced by the Friction between tyres and the road
The Moon revolving around the Earth The moon-Earth gravitational attraction provides the centripetal force
Artificial Satellite revolving around Earth The gravitational attraction between the artificial Satellite and the Earth supplies the centripetal force
List of Common circular motions and the sources of centripetal force (in a table)

Note that this centripetal force is a real force. In all the above examples, you can see that this force is supplied by real forces like gravitational force, electric force, or frictional force.

FAQs (frequently asked questions)

What is the source of centripetal force that a planet requires to revolve around the Sun?

The gravitational force (gravitational attraction) between the planet and the Sun supplies the centripetal force.

What is the source of centripetal force that the moon requires to revolve around the earth?

The gravitational attraction between the moon and the earth provides the centripetal force.

What is the source of centripetal force that an electron requires to revolve around the nucleus?

Centripetal force is provided by the electrical attraction (Coulomb force) between the electron and the nucleus

What is the source of centripetal force that an artificial satellite requires to revolve around the earth?

The gravitational force between the artificial Satellite and the Earth supplies the centripetal force.

What is the source of centripetal force that a Whirling rock on a string needs?

The tension in the string provides the necessary centripetal force.

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