Centripetal force is the force that keeps an object moving in a circular path, directed towards the center of the circle. It is necessary for maintaining uniform circular motion.
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Centripetal force is always directed perpendicular to the velocity of the object and towards the center of the circular path.
The magnitude of centripetal force can be calculated using $F_c = \frac{mv^2}{r}$, where $m$ is mass, $v$ is velocity, and $r$ is radius.
Centripetal force does not do work on the object because it acts perpendicular to its displacement.
In the context of gravity, centripetal force can be provided by gravitational attraction, such as a planet orbiting a star.
If centripetal force ceases to act, an object will move in a straight line tangent to its circular path due to inertia.