1. What is Torque?

Torque is a measure of the rotational force applied to an object. It represents how much a force acting on an object causes that object to rotate around a pivot point (fulcrum).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the torque formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The torque is maximized when the force is applied perpendicular to the lever arm (θ = 90°), and minimized when applied parallel to it (θ = 0° or 180°).

3. Importance of Torque Calculation

Details: Torque calculation is essential in mechanical engineering, physics, automotive design, and many industrial applications where rotational forces need to be measured or designed for.

4. Using the Calculator

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

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between torque and force?
A: Force causes linear acceleration, while torque causes rotational acceleration. Torque is essentially the rotational equivalent of force.

Q2: Why does the angle affect torque?
A: Only the component of force perpendicular to the lever arm contributes to rotation. The sine function calculates this perpendicular component.

Q3: What is the unit of torque?
A: Torque is measured in Newton-meters (Nm) in the SI system.

Q4: How does distance affect torque?
A: Torque increases linearly with distance from the pivot point. A longer lever arm produces more torque for the same applied force.

Q5: What is maximum torque?
A: Maximum torque occurs when the force is applied perpendicular to the lever arm (θ = 90°), where sin(90°) = 1.