Torque

Question 1

What is torque?

Answer 1

A torque is a force that causes objects to rotate. Torque happens when something is rotating around a pivot point.

Question 2

What is the formula for torque?

Answer 2

T = Fd, the unit is Nm

Question 3

Important things to remember, number 1.

Answer 3

All forces cause a torque unless the force acts exactly where the pivot point is.

Question 4

Important things to remember, number 2.

Answer 4

Every torque is either clockwise or anticlockwise.

Question 5

Important things to remember, number 3.

Answer 5

Any point can be the pivot point.

Question 6

Important things to remember, number 4.

Answer 6

If all the clockwise torques added up equal all the anticlockwise torques added up, then the system is in equilibrium. Usually this means it’s still, but it could also mean it’s rotating at a constant speed.

Question 7

Important things to remember, number 5.

Answer 7

Often you’ll need to make an equation by setting the clockwise torques equal to the anticlockwise torques and then solving it for some unknown force or distance.

Question 8

Explain the effect of turning the handle with the same force, but further away from the turning point.

Answer 8

If we compare the torque exerted by the
same force in questions iii) and iv) (both use a total of 30N), then holding the wrench further away from the turning point generates a greater torque, since
when the wrench is held from the end and
the middle (rather than just the middle),
the torque increases. This is also illustrated
in the formula 𝜏 = Fd, increasing the distance d with the same force F increases the torque.