Maharashtra BoardEnglish MediumSTD 12 SciencePhysicsRotational Dynamics4 Marks
Question
Define and explain centrifugal force.
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Answer
Definition : In the reference frame of a particle performing circular motion, centrifugal force is defined as a fictitious, radially outward force on the particle and is equal in magnitude to the particle's mass times the centripetal acceleration of the reference frame, as measured from an inertial frame of reference. Explanation : A uniform circular motion is an accelerated motion, with a centripetal acceleration of magnitude $v^2 / r$ or $\omega^2 r$. A frame of reference attached to the particle also has this acceleration and, therefore, is an accelerated or noninertial reference frame. The changing direction of the linear velocity appears in this reference frame as a tendency to move radially outward. This is explained by assuming a fictitious centrifugal, i.e., radially outward, force acting on the particle. Since the particle is stationary in its reference frame, the magnitude of the centrifugal force is $\mathrm{mv}^2 / \mathrm{r}$ or $\mathrm{m} \omega^2 \mathrm{r}$, the same as that of the centripetal force on the particle.Note: The word 'centrifugal' comes from the Latin for 'fleeing from the centre'. The word has the same root fuge from the Latin 'to flee' as does refugee.
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