Which term describes the outward force produced when a body moves along a curved path?

• A. Centrifugal force
• B. Centripetal force
• C. Drag
• D. Lift

Answer: (A)

When an object moves along a curved path, its inertia tends to keep it moving in a straight line. To bend the path, an inward force toward the curve’s center is required. From the perspective of someone turning with the motion, this tendency to feel like an outward push is described as centrifugal force. It’s an apparent effect in a rotating or turning frame of reference, not a separate physical force acting outward in the inertial sense. The real inward force that keeps the path curved is centripetal force. Drag and lift describe different interaction forces—drag resists motion along the direction of travel, while lift acts perpendicular to the motion and is what supports or turns the aircraft. So the outward force described here is centrifugal force.