The words centripetal and centrifugal in physics have their dictionary meanings. centripetal=toward the centre, centrifugal=away from the centre. They are equal and opposite, action and reaction.
Most people get it wrong because they do not understand that the centripetal force acts on the stone, and the centrifugal force acts on the string (or the boy). We then get incorrect statements about the centrifugal force throwing the rock out and keeping the string taut and that sort of thing.
What keeps the string taut? The boy pulling on it.
What balances the centripetal force on the stone? Nothing, that's why it moves in a circle.
As a general rule, the more words used to describe the phenomenon,
the more errors will be introduced.
Regardless of terminology, I have seen Golfers swing a clubhead attached to a 48" rope. They swing this rope club and hit the ball. The ball goes far. Longer than I am with a graphite shaft. Whatever name you use to identify the forces involved, we know that very great forces were involved, more than muscle power can generate. And it makes your list of power sources look a little inapplicable.
Originally Posted by golf_sceptic
Sources of power in the golf swing (focussed on the club)
1. early in the downswing -- leverage through "locked" wrists
2. mid-downswing to impact -- the slingshot (or flail) effect
together with leverage applied through the hands.
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