Centripetal Accel Calculator

Centripetal Accel - Perform scientific calculations with precision and accuracy.

Centripetal Accel Calculator

Centripetal Acceleration

Calculate circular motion forces using Linear Speed (v) or Angular Velocity (ω).

Physics Formula

ac = v² / r

What is Centripetal Acceleration?

Centripetal acceleration is the rate of change of tangential velocity of an object moving in a circular path. It is always directed towards the center of the circle.

Linear Formula

Used when you know the speed (v) in units like m/s or mph.

ac = v² / r

Angular Formula

Used when you know the rotation rate (ω) in units like RPM or rad/s.

ac = ω² · r

Centripetal Accel Calculator Guide

Centripetal Acceleration

Centripetal acceleration keeps an object moving along a circular path by continuously changing its velocity direction.

Formulas

  • a_c = v² / r
  • a_c = ω² r

Example

For v=12 m/s and r=8 m: a_c = 144 / 8 = 18 m/s².

FAQs

Direction?
Always toward the center of the circular path.

Uniform circular motion?
Speed constant, direction changes; acceleration is non-zero.

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