Author
Home > Science > What is the Difference Between Pseudo Force and Centrifugal Force?

Guilherme Mazui

•3 minutes to read

What is the Difference Between Pseudo Force and Centrifugal Force?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

The main difference between pseudo force and centrifugal force lies in their definitions and the context in which they are used.

  • Pseudo Force: A pseudo force is a force that appears in a non-inertial frame of reference, such as a rotating or accelerating system. It is used to make Newton's laws of motion valid in such non-inertial frames. The centrifugal force is a special case of a pseudo force, and it arises due to Newton's third law of motion, which states, "For every action, there is an equal, but opposite, reaction".
  • Centrifugal Force: Centrifugal force is a pseudo force experienced by objects in a rotating frame of reference, such as when sitting on a merry-go-round or in a car taking a corner. It is the sensation of being "pulled" away from the center of the circular path. However, there is no actual force acting outward on the object; instead, it is the result of the object's inertia and the constraining centripetal force.

In summary, centrifugal force is a specific type of pseudo force that occurs in rotating systems, while pseudo forces can occur in any non-inertial system. Both concepts are used to help calculate the motion of objects in non-inertial frames of reference.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Pseudo Force and Centrifugal Force?
  • Comparative Table: Pseudo Force vs Centrifugal Force

    • Comparative Table: Pseudo Force vs Centrifugal Force

    Here is a table comparing pseudo force and centrifugal force:

    Feature Pseudo Force Centrifugal Force
    Definition Pseudo force is a mathematical construct used to simplify calculations in non-inertial reference frames. Centrifugal force is a type of pseudo force that appears in a rotating frame of reference and acts along the radius, directed away from the center of the circle.
    Existence Pseudo forces are not real forces acting on an object but are a mathematical construct used for convenience in calculations. Centrifugal force is not a real force acting on an object; it is a concept introduced for ease of calculations in rotating systems.
    Occurrence Pseudo forces occur in any non-inertial system. Centrifugal force occurs only in rotating systems.
    Calculation Pseudoforce can be calculated using the equations of motion in the non-inertial frame. Centrifugal force can be calculated using the formula F = -mv^2/r, where m is the mass of the object, v is its velocity, and r is the radius of its circular path.
    Reference Frame Pseudo forces are present in both inertial and non-inertial frames. Centrifugal force only works in the rotational frame of reference.

    In summary, pseudo force is a general concept used in non-inertial frames, while centrifugal force is a specific type of pseudo force that occurs in rotating systems. Both are mathematical constructs introduced to simplify calculations and are not real forces acting on objects.

    Read more:

    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.