What is the line of action of force and how does it relate to torque?

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In summary, the line of action of a force is an imaginary line that extends through the point where the force is applied and in the direction of the force. This concept is important in understanding torque and can be thought of as an axis along which the force is applied. Even if the lines of action are parallel, if they are not identical then there will be torque applied.
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Homework Statement




what is meant by line of action of force? how to understand this concept? suppose i kick a ball and the ball moves in east. then can i say the line of action of force is along the movement of the ball, that is towards the east. i find this concept of line of action of force in toque. could u please help me to understand, revered members?

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The Attempt at a Solution

 
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You could think of the line of action as a sort of axis along which the force is applied.
Unlike the force vector which begins at the point where the force is applied and extends according to the magnitude of the force, the line of force goes through the point and extends indefinitely in both directions.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Line_of_action

It is a geometric construct. If the lines are not identical you will have a torque applied. Note that when they say identical in this case that includes position. Even if the lines are parallel but not identical then you will still have torque.
 

1. What is the line of action of force?

The line of action of force is an imaginary line that represents the direction in which a force is acting. It is a straight line passing through the point of application of the force in the direction of the force.

2. How is the line of action of force different from the direction of the force?

The line of action of force is the imaginary line representing the direction of the force, while the direction of the force is the actual direction in which the force is acting. The line of action can be different from the direction of the force if the force is applied at an angle.

3. Why is the line of action of force important in physics?

The line of action of force is important in physics because it helps us understand the effects of forces on objects. It allows us to accurately predict the direction and magnitude of the resulting motion or deformation caused by a force.

4. Can the line of action of force change?

Yes, the line of action of force can change if the direction or magnitude of the force changes. However, it will always pass through the point of application of the force in the direction of the force.

5. How is the line of action of force used in calculating torque?

The line of action of force is used in calculating torque by determining the perpendicular distance from the line of action of the force to the pivot point. This distance is then multiplied by the magnitude of the force to determine the torque, or turning effect, of the force.

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