Centripetal Force Apparatus
Recommended for College and High School.
The Centripetal Force Apparatus allows you to investigate the relationship between centripetal force, angular velocity, mass, and radius.
Description
A force sensor measures the centripetal force exerted on a mass as it moves in a circle. A photogate can be used to measure the angular speed. Different masses can be added to the platform and positioned at variable radii. The platform can be driven by a falling mass. The apparatus also accommodates the Vernier Wireless Dynamic Sensor System to measure force, which provides the best set of data. Sensors are sold separately.
Experiments and Lab Ideas

Advanced Physics with Vernier - Mechanics (1)
Includes student instructions, teacher tips, safety information, and sample data.
Go to Book Page
What’s Included
- Rectangular Frame
- Support Legs (2)
- Rotating Assembly consisting of Rotational Shaft, Encoder Wheel, 3-Step Pulley, Rotating Beam, Bearing Housing
- Sliding Carriage to hold the test masses
- Counterbalance Carriage to balance the rotating beam
- Swivel Assembly (connects Sliding Carriage to a Dual-Range Force Sensor)
- Ultra Pulley
- Ultra Pulley Bracket (preinstalled on Assembly)
- Photogate Bracket with 1/4 x 20 mounting screw (preinstalled on Assembly)
- Dual-Range Force Sensor Bracket (preinstalled on Assembly)
- 100 g masses (6)
- Hook (attaches a Wireless Dynamic Sensor System to the Sliding Carriage)
- WDSS Mounting Screw and T Nut to secure a WDSS
- User manual
Teacher Review
“As an experimental physicist who teaches introductory physics, I strongly recommend Vernier’s new Centripetal Force Apparatus. It is extremely well thought out and engineered.”
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Ordering Information
Due to the product weight, additional shipping charges may apply.
Related Products
Educational use only: Vernier products are designed for educational use. They are not appropriate for industrial, medical, or commercial applications. Product usage disclaimer »










