🎡 Centripetal vs Centrifugal Force: What’s Real and What’s Not? (MCAT Physics Visual)

Circular motion is a classic MCAT concept—and a sneaky one. Students often confuse centripetal and centrifugal forces, but only one of them is real in physics terms. If you’ve ever felt thrown outward in a spinning car, you’ve experienced this firsthand.

🔍 Why This Is High-Yield for the MCAT

On Test Day, you’re expected to:

• Analyze forces in rotating systems

• Understand reference frames

• Apply Newton’s laws to circular motion

And yes, questions can ask about why centrifugal force is “fictitious.”

🧲 Centripetal Force: The Real Deal

Definition:
A force that acts on an object moving in a circular path, always directed toward the center.

📌 Key Facts:

• Keeps objects in circular motion

• It’s a net inward force

• Examples: Tension in a string, gravitational force in orbit, friction in car tires

🧮 Formula:

F_c = (mv²) / r

• m = mass
• v = velocity
• r = radius of circular path

🌪️ Centrifugal Force: The Illusion

Definition:
A perceived outward force that seems to push an object away from the center—but it only appears in a rotating reference frame.

📌 Key Facts:

• Not a real force (in Newtonian mechanics)

• Helps explain why you feel “pushed” outward in a spinning ride

• Used in engineering and non-inertial frame problems

🔁 Summary Table

Force Type	Direction	Real or Fictitious?	When It Applies
Centripetal	Toward center	✅ Real	In any circular motion (Newton’s laws)
Centrifugal	Away from center	❌ Fictitious	In a rotating (non-inertial) frame

🧠 MCAT-Style Tip

Sample Question:
A child in a spinning merry-go-round feels like they're being pulled outward. What force is actually acting on them?

Correct Answer:
Centripetal force is pulling them inward—what they feel as being thrown outward is the fictitious centrifugal force.

✅ Final Takeaways

• Centripetal force keeps you moving in a circle—it’s real.

• Centrifugal force is a perceived effect of being in a non-inertial (rotating) frame.

• Use the formula mv2/r​ to calculate centripetal force on the MCAT.

📲 Master Motion with KOTC

Don’t just memorize physics—visualize it.

👉 Get Daily QOTDs
👉 Try the Adaptive Physics Qbank
👉 Explore the Visual Concept Library

---

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• How many hours should I study for the MCAT each day?

  Aim for 4-6 focused hours, ensuring you incorporate breaks to avoid burnout.

• What is the best way to handle test anxiety?

  Practice mindfulness techniques, take practice exams under realistic conditions, and maintain a balanced lifestyle.

• How can I stay motivated during the long application process?

  Set short-term goals, seek support from mentors, and reward yourself for small achievements.

• What role does exercise play in MCAT preparation?

  Regular exercise improves focus, reduces stress, and enhances overall mental clarity.

• How does King of the Curve help with MCAT preparation?

  KOTC offers personalized learning tools, gamification features, and adaptive question banks to help students stay on track without burnout.