How it works
Use centripetal force with the units stated beside the fields. This form solves for mass; enter the known quantities in Force magnitude, Speed, Radius.
Inputs and units
| Input | Example value | What to enter |
|---|---|---|
| Force magnitude | 18 N | Formula symbol: F. Required unit: N. Must be greater than zero. |
| Speed | 3 m/s | Formula symbol: v. Required unit: m/s. Must be greater than zero. |
| Radius | 1.5 m | Formula symbol: r. Required unit: m. Distance from the centre to the edge; half the diameter. Must be greater than zero. |
Worked example
Show example inputs and results
This example is generated by the same calculation engine using the starting values in the form. Your own inputs produce your own result.
- Force magnitude
- 18 N
- Speed
- 3 m/s
- Radius
- 1.5 m
Complete example results
- Mass
- 3 kg
Reading the result
The result solves for mass from the entered quantities. Check the result unit and the formula conditions before using it.
Questions and answers
Can I use the example values for my own calculation?
The example values illustrate the calculation. Replace every input with your own information, especially dates, rates and the selected operation.
When can I use the mass result?
This model uses positive magnitudes. It is the inward net force in circular motion, with constant radius and speed; it is not an additional separate force.
Why are some results rounded?
Results display up to 8 decimal places. Calculations use the unrounded values; very small values use scientific notation. JavaScript floating-point arithmetic can introduce tiny rounding differences.
Are my inputs sent to a server?
The calculator processes inputs in your browser. Its code does not send your values to a server.
Method sources: openstax.org