centripetal

Definitions

centrum (center) + petere (to seek, rush toward) + -al = 'center-seeking.' A centripetal force is one forever pulling a spinning object inward, toward the center — the root's 'rush toward a target' made literal in physics. Contrast centrifugal (center-fleeing).

Common Collocations

• 1.centripetal force向心力
• 2.centripetal acceleration向心加速度

Example Sentences

• 1.

  Centripetal force keeps the satellite in its orbit.

• 2.

  The spinning bucket of water demonstrates centripetal acceleration.