centripetal force

[sen-ˈtrip-ə-təl ˈfȯrs]
nounpl: centripetal forces
força centrípeta
1. The force that acts on an object moving in a circular path, directed toward the center of the circle, keeping the object in its circular motion
The centripetal force keeps the satellite in orbit around Earth.
A força centrípeta mantém o satélite em órbita ao redor da Terra.
2. In physics, the net force required to keep an object moving along a curved path at constant speed
Without centripetal force, the car would skid off the curved road.
Sem a força centrípeta, o carro sairia derrapando da estrada curva.
This is a fundamental concept in physics education taught in both the USA and Brazil at the high school and university levels. The term is identical in both English and Portuguese scientific communities, making it a universal technical term in STEM education across both countries.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
center-seeking forceradial force
Antonyms / Antônimos
centrifugal force

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
força centrípeta
Standard term used in physics education and scientific contexts
Rio de Janeiro
força centrípeta
Same as general Brazilian; no regional variation
São Paulo
força centrípeta
Same as general Brazilian; no regional variation
Portugal
força centrípeta
Identical to Brazilian Portuguese; used in Portuguese physics education

Related Words

circular motioncentrifugal forceangular velocitygravitytensionfriction

Related Idioms & Phrases

pull toward the center
keep on track
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