1. What is Rotational Torque?

Torque is a measure of the force that can cause an object to rotate about an axis. It is the rotational equivalent of linear force and is calculated as the product of the force applied, the distance from the pivot point (radius), and the sine of the angle between the force vector and the lever arm.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the torque equation:

Where:

• \( \tau \) — Torque (N·m)
• \( r \) — Radius or lever arm (m)
• \( F \) — Force applied (N)
• \( \theta \) — Angle between force vector and lever arm (degrees)

Explanation: The equation shows that torque depends on both the magnitude of the force and how that force is applied relative to the rotation axis.

3. Importance of Torque Calculation

Details: Torque calculations are essential in mechanical engineering, physics, and many practical applications like tightening bolts, designing engines, and understanding rotational motion.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter radius in meters, force in newtons, and angle in degrees (0-180). All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: What happens when angle is 0° or 180°?
A: At these angles, sin(θ) = 0, so torque is zero. The force is directed along the lever arm and causes no rotation.

Q3: What are common torque units?
A: The SI unit is newton-meter (N·m). Other units include pound-feet (lb·ft) and dyne-centimeter (dyn·cm).

Q4: How does torque differ from work?
A: Both have units of force × distance, but torque is a vector (rotational force) while work is a scalar (energy transfer).

Q5: What's the right-hand rule for torque?
A: Point fingers in direction of r, curl toward F; thumb points in torque direction (along rotation axis).