1. What is Torque?

Torque is a measure of the force that can cause an object to rotate about an axis. It is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction. In physics, torque is what causes angular acceleration.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the torque formula:

Where:

• \( \tau \) — Torque (Newton-meters, N·m)
• \( F \) — Force applied (Newtons, N)
• \( r \) — Radius or moment arm (meters, m)

Explanation: The torque produced is directly proportional to both the applied force and the distance from the pivot point at which the force is applied.

3. Importance of Torque Calculation

Details: Calculating torque is essential in mechanical engineering, automotive design, and many physics applications. It helps determine the rotational force needed for various mechanical systems, from simple pulleys to complex engine components.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the force in Newtons and the radius in meters. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute the torque in Newton-meters (N·m).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between torque and force?
A: Force causes linear acceleration, while torque causes rotational acceleration. Torque depends on both the magnitude of force and where it's applied relative to the pivot point.

Q2: Can torque be negative?
A: Yes, torque can be negative when it acts in the opposite direction to what is defined as positive, typically clockwise vs. counterclockwise rotation.

Q3: How does pulley size affect torque?
A: Larger pulleys (greater radius) produce more torque for the same applied force, according to the formula τ = F × r.

Q4: What are common units for torque?
A: Newton-meters (N·m) in the SI system, and pound-feet (lb·ft) in the imperial system.

Q5: How is torque related to power?
A: Power is the rate of doing work, and for rotational systems, power equals torque multiplied by angular velocity (P = τ × ω).