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MVP — interactive sketch; a fuller lab is coming later.

Centripetal force & critical conditions

F = mω²r on a turntable; friction-limited critical ωc = √(μg/r), independent of mass.

Curved motion & gravitation (senior)Composition, projectile, centripetal force, orbits.

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Centripetal force & critical conditions

Centripetal force F = mω²r sustains circular motion; on a turntable friction sets the critical ωc = √(μg/r), which is mass-independent.

Centripetal force F = mω²r; friction-limited ωc = √(μg/r), mass-independent.

Key formulas

  • F_c=m\omega^2 r
  • \omega_c=\sqrt{\mu g/r}
  • v=\omega r

How to use

  1. Set mass m, radius r, angular velocity ω, and μs.
  2. Increase ω to see when the object slips off.
  3. Verify the critical condition ωc = √(μg/r) in the readouts.

Applications

  • Centripetal force & critical conditions: Centripetal force F = mω²r; friction-limited ωc = √(μg/r), mass-independent.
  • Classroom focus: friction-limited critical ωc = √(μg/r), independent of mass.

FAQ

Does the critical ω depend on mass?

No — ωc = √(μg/r) depends only on μ, g, and r; mass cancels out.

What does MVP mean on this page?

An interactive sketch with formulas and parameters. Polished Ready labs are the full bench experience.

What does the “Centripetal force & critical conditions” lab practice?

Tune parameters and match readouts to the “Centripetal force & critical conditions” relations — useful for prep and demos.

Is force always along velocity?

No. Net force aligns with acceleration; velocity can point elsewhere.

Try the lab