In circular motion, we often hear the term 'centrifugal force.' However, it is important to understand that centrifugal force is not an actual force. It is rather a perceived force experienced by an object in circular motion that is trying to move in a straight line.

When an object is in circular motion, it constantly changes its direction, always being pulled towards the center of the circle by the centripetal force. Due to the object's inertia, it tends to continue moving in a straight-line path, away from the center of the circle. This apparent force, which pushes the object outward, is commonly referred to as centrifugal force.

To visualize this concept, imagine swinging a bucket full of water in a circular motion. As the bucket moves around, the water inside wants to move in a straight line tangent to the circle. However, the bucket exerts a centripetal force that keeps the water moving in a circular path. This causes the water to press against the walls of the bucket, creating the illusion of an outward force, which we call centrifugal force.

It is crucial to note that centrifugal force is not a fundamental force like gravity or electromagnetism. Instead, it is a result of inertia and the absence of an actual outward force acting on the object. As soon as the centripetal force is removed, the object will move in a straight-line path, tangent to the circle.