Torque
From Simple English Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia


The most basic definition of Torque in physics is a turning or twisting force. If a force is used to begin to spin an object, or to stop an object from spinning, a torque is generated. The force applied to a lever, multiplied by the distance from the lever's fulcrum is decsribed as torque.
Fulcrum - is the axis of rotation or point of support on which a lever turns in raising or moving something.
The equation for torque is:
τ = r x F
where, F is the force vector, and r is the vector from the axis of rotation to the point where the force is acting.
Note: The SI units of torque are measured in Newton-metres or N*m. The Joule is also defined to be 1 N*m, but for torque Joules are not used since energy is a scalar quantity and torque is a vector quantity. The correct English units are foot-pounds (ft-lbs).
Scalar - quantities with magnitudes. Vector - quantities with magnitudes and direction.
[edit] External Links
- "Horsepower and Torque" An article showing how power, torque, and gearing affect a vehicle's performance.
- a discussion of torque and angular momentum in an online textbook
- Torque and Angular Momentum in Circular Motion on Project PHYSNET.
- An interactive simulation of torque