Centripetal Force Quiz

What is centripetal force?

• A force that pulls objects outward

• A force that keeps an object moving in a straight line

• A force that keeps an object moving in a circular path, directed toward the center

• A force that stops an object from moving

In which direction does centripetal force act in circular motion?

• Outward, away from the center

• Toward the center of the circle

• Upward, against gravity

• None of the above

Which of the following is an example of centripetal force?

• Gravity keeping the moon in orbit around Earth

• Friction slowing down a moving car

• Air resistance stopping a falling object

• Magnetic force pulling objects toward Earth

If you spin a ball tied to a string in a circle and then let go of the string, what will happen to the ball?

• It will continue in a circular path

• It will move in a straight line away from you

• It will move in a spiral path

• It will stop moving instantly

Which of the following best describes why the moon stays in orbit around Earth?

• The moon’s inertia keeps it moving in a straight line away from Earth

• Earth’s gravitational pull provides the centripetal force that keeps the moon in orbit

• Air resistance keeps the moon in orbit

• There is no force acting on the moon; it simply moves around Earth naturally