Torque

Definition

Torque is a measure of the rotational force applied to an object, causing it to rotate about an axis, fulcrum, or pivot. It is the product of the force applied and the perpendicular distance between the line of action of the force and the axis of rotation. Torque is a crucial concept in understanding rotational motion and the behavior of mechanical systems.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Torque is the product of the applied force and the lever arm, which is the perpendicular distance between the line of action of the force and the axis of rotation.
2. Torque is responsible for causing rotational motion, and it is a key concept in understanding the behavior of simple machines, such as levers, pulleys, and gears.
3. The direction of the torque is determined by the right-hand rule, which states that the direction of the torque is given by the direction of the curl of the fingers when the thumb points in the direction of the force.
4. Torque is an important factor in the design and analysis of motors, generators, and transformers, as it determines the rotational forces and power output of these devices.
5. The concept of torque is also used in the analysis of static equilibrium, where the net torque acting on an object must be zero for the object to remain in a state of equilibrium.

Review Questions

• Explain how torque is related to the concept of force and its role in rotational motion.
  • Torque is the rotational equivalent of force, and it is the product of the applied force and the perpendicular distance between the line of action of the force and the axis of rotation. Torque is responsible for causing rotational motion, as it creates a rotational force that causes an object to rotate about an axis. The magnitude of the torque determines the degree of rotational acceleration, and the direction of the torque determines the direction of the rotational motion.
• Describe the role of torque in the operation of simple machines, such as levers, pulleys, and gears.
  • Torque is a crucial concept in understanding the behavior of simple machines, as it determines the mechanical advantage and the efficiency of these devices. In a lever, for example, the applied force creates a torque about the fulcrum, which is used to lift or move a load. The mechanical advantage of a lever depends on the ratio of the lever arm lengths, which determines the relative magnitudes of the torque applied and the torque exerted on the load. Similarly, in pulleys and gears, the distribution of torque between the input and output components is what allows these machines to transmit rotational motion and force.
• Analyze the importance of torque in the design and operation of motors, generators, and transformers, and explain how it relates to the concept of power.
  • Torque is a fundamental concept in the design and operation of motors, generators, and transformers, as it determines the rotational forces and power output of these devices. In a motor, the interaction between the magnetic field and the current-carrying conductors creates a torque that causes the rotor to rotate, generating mechanical power. In a generator, the reverse process occurs, where the rotation of the rotor creates a changing magnetic field, which induces a voltage and current, generating electrical power. Transformers also rely on the concept of torque, as the changing magnetic field in the primary winding creates a torque that induces a voltage in the secondary winding. The relationship between torque, angular velocity, and power is crucial in the design and optimization of these electromechanical devices.

Related terms

Moment: The moment is the rotational equivalent of force, and it is used to describe the tendency of a force to cause rotational motion about a specific point or axis.

Lever Arm: The lever arm is the perpendicular distance from the axis of rotation to the line of action of the force, which determines the magnitude of the torque.

Angular Momentum:

Angular momentum is the rotational equivalent of linear momentum, and it describes the tendency of an object to continue rotating about an axis.