Which of the following best describes the concept of $\mathrm{centripetal}\mathrm{force}$ in physics?

• A. It is the force that pushes an object outward, away from the center of a circular path.
• B. It is the force responsible for the acceleration of an object in a straight line.
• C. It is the force that acts on an object moving in a circular path, directed toward the center of the circle.
• D. It is the force that opposes the motion of an object due to friction.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that centripetal force is related to circular motion, where an object moves along a curved path.
2. Recall that for an object to move in a circle, it must constantly change direction, which means it experiences acceleration toward the center of the circle.
3. Recognize that this inward acceleration requires a net force directed toward the center, called the centripetal force.
4. Note that centripetal force is not a force that pushes outward; rather, it pulls or acts inward, keeping the object on its circular path.
5. Therefore, the best description is: centripetal force is the force that acts on an object moving in a circular path, directed toward the center of the circle.