centripetal force; cohesion
Meanings
2 senses · 8 examplesnoun
centripetal force; the force that causes an object to follow a circular path
Physics term. In Newtonian mechanics, this force is directed toward the center of curvature of the object's path.
Earth's gravitational pull on the moon provides the centripetal force needed for the moon to orbit Earth.
When a ball attached to a string moves in a circle, the tension in the string provides the centripetal force.
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The direction of centripetal force always points toward the center of the circle.
Calculating centripetal force requires knowing the object's mass, velocity, and the radius of the circular path.
noun
cohesion; centripetal force (figurative); group solidarity
Metaphorical usage borrowed from physics to describe unity, loyalty, and cohesive forces within a group, organization, or society.
Strengthening the cohesion of the enterprise is the manager's primary task.
This team has strong centripetal force; everyone is very united.
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The leader's charisma can enhance the team's cohesion.
Organizations lacking centripetal force find it difficult to respond to external challenges.