Question

With reference to magnitude of force and its direction, how does centripetal force differ from centrifugal force?

Answer 1

The centripetal force and centrifugal force are equal in magnitude:

`F = (mv^2)/r`

The centripetal force acts towards the centre of the circular path.

The centrifugal force acts away from the centre of the circular path, i.e. opposite to centripetal force.

Therefore, centripetal and centrifugal forces are equal in magnitude but opposite in direction.