Calculate Centrifugal Force

Online calculator and formulas for calculating centrifugal force

Centrifugal Force Calculator

Centrifugal force in circular motion

Calculates various parameters of the centrifugal force (F), which occurs during rotational and circular motion. The force is directed radially outward from the axis of rotation.

Result
Centrifugal force:
Mass:
Velocity:
Radius:

Example Calculation

Example: Centrifugal force on a carousel
Problem:

A child with a mass of 30 kg sits on a chain carousel. The distance to the axis of rotation is 5 m and the orbital velocity is 8 m/s. What is the centrifugal force?

Given:
  • Mass m = 30 kg
  • Radius r = 5 m
  • Velocity v = 8 m/s
  • Find: Centrifugal force F
Solution:

\(F = \frac{m × v²}{ r}\)

\[F = \frac{30 kg × 8²}{5 m} \]

\[F = \frac{30 × 64}{5}\]

\[F = 384 N\]

Practical Applications
Automotive engineering: Cornering, tire grip, rollover safety
Mechanical engineering: Unbalance calculation, centrifuges, washing machines
Amusement parks: Carousels, roller coasters, rides


Formulas for centrifugal force

The centrifugal force is an inertial force that occurs during rotational and circular motion. It is directed radially outward from the axis of rotation. The unit of measurement is Newton (N).

Centrifugal force in Newton (N)

The basic formula for centrifugal force in circular motion.

\[\displaystyle F_Z=\frac{m \cdot v^2}{r}\]
Mass in kilogram (kg)

Rearrangement of the basic formula to calculate mass.

\[\displaystyle m=\frac{F_Z \cdot r}{v^2}\]
Orbital velocity in m/s

Calculation of velocity with known force and radius.

\[\displaystyle v=\sqrt{\frac{F_Z \cdot r}{m}}\]
Radius in meter (m)

Calculation of radius with known force and velocity.

\[\displaystyle r=\frac{m \cdot v^2}{F_Z}\]
Important Notes
  • The centrifugal force is a fictitious force (inertial force)
  • It only acts in rotating reference frames
  • The force is proportional to the square of the velocity
  • At double velocity, the centrifugal force quadruples

Detailed description of centrifugal force

Physical Fundamentals

This function calculates various parameters of the centrifugal force. The centrifugal force is an inertial force that occurs during rotational and circular motion. It is directed radially outward from the axis of rotation, such as on a chain carousel when the seats are pushed outward.

Usage Instructions

To calculate, select which parameter should be calculated using the radio buttons. Then enter the required values and click the 'Calculate' button.

Application Areas

Automotive Engineering

Cornering, calculation of tire grip, rollover safety for vehicles. Important for vehicle dynamics and safety systems.

Mechanical Engineering

Unbalance calculations, centrifuges, washing machines, rotating machine parts. Foundation for vibration and stress analysis.

Amusement Parks

Carousels, roller coasters, rides. Calculation of loads for safety and construction of recreational facilities.

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