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.
Start here
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
- Set mass m, radius r, angular velocity ω, and μs.
- Increase ω to see when the object slips off.
- 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.
