Page 1 of 2
Characteristics of central force.
Definition :
Central force is defined as the force whose direction is
always towards a fixed point along a straight line.
Examples ;
electrostatic force between two charges(coulomb force) ,
Magnetic force , nuclear forces, gravitational force ,and
Force acting on spring - mass system ,etc.
Coulomb force / nuclear force
Magnetic force
Page 2 of 2
Spring mass system
F= -kx
Characteristics:
1. The direction of Central force is always towards a
fixed point.
2. The central force is always conservative.
3. They are long range forces.
4. Curl of central force is equal to zero. ⛛ X F =0
5. Central force is equal to the negative gradient of
potential energy. F = - ⛛. U