Enter the angular acceleration, radius, and mass into the calculator to determine the tangential force.

## Tangential Force Formula

The following equation is used to calculate the Tangential Force.

TF = m*a*r
• Where TF is the tangential force (N)
• m is the mass (kg)
• a is the angular acceleration (rad/s^2)
• r is the radius of rotation (m)

To calculate the tangential force, multiply the mass, angular acceleration, and radius together.

## What is a Tangential Force?

Definition:

Tangential force is a force that acts on a body moving along a circular path as it changes its direction of motion. It is directed towards the circle’s center, perpendicular to the velocity vector. It can be defined as the rate of change of angular momentum about an axis that is perpendicular to the line joining the point of contact and axis.

## How to Calculate Tangential Force?

Example Problem:

The following example outlines the steps and information needed to calculate the Tangential Force.

First, determine the angular acceleration. In this example, the angular acceleration is measured to be 4 radian/s.

Next, determine the mass. The mass of the object is measured to be 3 kg.

Next, determine the radius of rotation. This object is rotating at a radius of 5 m.

Finally, calculate the tangential force using the formula above:

TF = m*a*r

TF = 3*4*5

TF = 60 N