Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Critical speed or critical velocity is defined as the minimum speed required for an object to complete a vertical circle without falling off at its highest point. It occurs when centripetal force equals gravitational force.
Related terms
Circular Motion: Circular motion refers to any motion along a curved path with constant radius.