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. Torque is fundamental in mechanical systems and engineering applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the torque formula:

Where:

• \( \tau \) — Torque (Newton-meters)
• \( F \) — Force applied (Newtons)
• \( r \) — Lever arm length (meters)
• \( \theta \) — Angle between force vector and lever arm (degrees)

Explanation: The formula calculates the rotational effect of a force applied at a distance from a pivot point, taking into account the angle of application.

3. Importance of Torque Calculation

Details: Accurate torque calculation is essential in mechanical engineering, automotive design, robotics, and many other fields where rotational forces need to be measured and controlled.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter force in Newtons, lever arm in meters, and angle in degrees. All values must be valid (force > 0, lever arm > 0, angle between 0-180 degrees).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the maximum torque possible?
A: Maximum torque occurs when the force is applied perpendicular to the lever arm (θ = 90°), where sin(θ) = 1.

Q2: How does angle affect torque?
A: Torque is maximized at 90° and minimized at 0° and 180°, where the force is parallel to the lever arm.

Q3: What are common units for torque?
A: Newton-meters (Nm) in SI units, pound-feet (lb-ft) in imperial units, and dyne-centimeters in CGS units.

Q4: How is torque different from force?
A: Force causes linear acceleration, while torque causes rotational acceleration. Torque depends on both the magnitude of force and its point of application.

Q5: What is the right-hand rule for torque?
A: The right-hand rule determines torque direction: point fingers in direction of lever arm, curl toward force direction - thumb points in torque direction.