what is centrifugal force?
In: Physics
Centrifugal force is the term for the combine actions of inertia and centripetal force. Centripetal force is a force that acts on a body moving in a circular path and is directed toward the center around which the body is moving. Inertia is a property of matter by which it continues in its existing state of rest or uniform motion in a straight line, unless that state is changed by an external force.
Using a ball on a string for example.
You start spinning the ball around your head. Centripetal force is caused by the string pulling the ball in, while inertia is trying to keep the ball moving in a straight line away from you.
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