MCAT Physics Question 14: Answer and Explanation

Home > MCAT Test > MCAT physics practice tests

Test Information

Question: 14

14. Centrifugal force is an apparent outward force during circular motion. It has been described as a reaction force according to Newton's third law. Which of the following statements is most likely to be correct regarding centrifugal force?

  • A. Centrifugal force exists only for uniform circular motion, not nonuniform circular motion.
  • B. Centrifugal force exists only when tension or a normal force provides centripetal acceleration.
  • C. Centrifugal force always acts antiparallel to the centripetal force vector.
  • D. Centrifugal force is result of repulsive electrostatic interactions.

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

Because the question stem indicates that centrifugal force is reactionary and gives its direction, we can draw the conclusion that it is a reaction to the centripetal force. According to Newton's third law, these forces must have equal magnitude and opposite directions (antiparallel).

Previous       Next