 |
|
| A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z |
|
|
centrifugal force
A force that must be included in the calculation of equilibria between forces in a spinning frame of reference, such as that of a rotating space station. In the rotating frame, the forces on a body of mass m are in equilibrium (as evidenced by the body staying at the same place) only if all forces acting on it, plus a centrifugal force mv²/R directed away from the center of rotation, add up to zero. The centrifugal force is often described as being a "fictitious force" in the sense that it is a reaction to the centripetal force needed to keep an object moving on a curved path.
Related category
• CLASSICAL MECHANICS
Also on this site:
Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living
Encyclopedia of History
Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site)