Definition: Centripetal force is the force which moves the body in a circular path. It acts perpendicular to the direction of linear velocity and is directed radially towards the centre of that circular path. If the mass of the body is m, the radius of the circular path is r, the linear velocity of the body is v and its angular velocity is ω, then centripetal force = mω 2 r = \ (\frac {m v^2} {r}\) Learn what centripetal force is, how it affects circular motion, and how to calculate it using Newton's second law. See examples of centripetal force in everyday life and the difference between centripetal and centrifugal force . Learn what centripetal force is, how to calculate it and see examples of it in daily life. Compare centripetal force with centrifugal force and test your knowledge with a quiz. Understand centripetal force , circular motion, and related concepts like banking of roads, aeroplane turns, and cyclist motion.