Centrifugal
Definition 1 of 2
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Physical Context
Used to describe forces and movements in physics, often related to spinning objects. The centrifugal force on the merry-go-round made me cling tighter to the ride.
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Not Centripetal
'Centrifugal' is often confused with 'centripetal', which is the force pulling towards the center. The centrifugal force flings mud outward, while centripetal force keeps the car tires gripping the road.
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Common Misconception
Sometimes thought of as a real force, but it's a perceived force due to rotation. She mistakenly said gravity was a type of centrifugal force, instead of recognizing it as a fictitious force.