question_answer

One often comes across the following kind of statement concerning circular motion. 'A particle moving uniformly along a circle experiences a force directed towards the centre and an equal and opposite force directed away from the centre. The two forces together keep the particle in equilibrium'. Explain, what is wrong with the statement?

Answer:

                The statement is wrong, because an external force is required to move a body uniformly in a circle. This is centripetal force, which acts on the particle. The centrifugal force which is equal and opposite to the centripetal force comes into play on account of tendency of the particle to get back to the straight line path. This force does not act on the particle. It acts on the agent supplying the necessary centripetal force.