Centrifugal force increases with an increase in the mass of the object, the speed of rotation, or with a decrease in the radius of the circular path.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
-
Mass: The heavier the object, the greater the centrifugal force. This is a direct relationship. If you double the mass, you double the centrifugal force.
-
Speed of Rotation: Centrifugal force increases exponentially with the speed of rotation (angular velocity). If you double the speed of rotation, the centrifugal force quadruples.
-
Radius: The centrifugal force is inversely proportional to the radius of the circular path. As the radius decreases, the centrifugal force increases. Imagine a shorter tether ball string; the tension increases much faster.
Formula:
The centrifugal force (F) can be calculated using the following formula:
F = m * v^2 / r
where:
- m = mass of the object
- v = speed of the object
- r = radius of the circular path
In summary:
| Factor | Effect on Centrifugal Force |
|---|---|
| Mass (m) | Direct Proportionality |
| Speed (v) | Exponential (v^2) |
| Radius (r) | Inverse Proportionality |
