a = v² / r

Where:

* a is the centripetal acceleration (m/s²)

* v is the velocity of the object (m/s)

* r is the radius of the circular path (m)

To find the centripetal force, you use Newton's second law:

F = ma

Where:

* F is the centripetal force (N)

* m is the mass of the object (kg)

* a is the centripetal acceleration (m/s²)

Combining these equations, we get the formula for centripetal force:

F = mv² / r

Important notes:

* Centripetal force is always directed towards the center of the circular path.

* It is not a separate force, but rather the net force acting on an object moving in a circle.

* This force is responsible for keeping the object moving in a circular path, preventing it from moving in a straight line.