# About Torque (twisting force)

1. Feb 13, 2007

### minijumbuk

i was wondering the other way to calculate torque
as it is calculated by Fd, F=force and d= distance from pivot.
my question is... originally, torque is calculated by extending the line of force until it is perpendicular to the pivot. then that distance X force is the value of torque.
i was wondering, if the force is at an angle to the place of contact, could we not just split the force into horizontal and verticle force? and then use the horizontal force (given by F sin (angle)) and measure the distance from pivot from the point of contact which is already perpendicular to the pivot, please give some thoughts...i duno if its right...

2. Feb 13, 2007

### mjsd

yup, just like many things in physics...torque formula is the dot product between the force vector and the "distance" vector. so yes, you will get a sin or cos of an angle depending where you define your angle. but the idea is the same.

edit: sorry I meant to say cross product, convention is use sin of an angle

Last edited: Feb 13, 2007
3. Feb 13, 2007

### Cyrus

Very good, you are correct.

4. Feb 13, 2007

### minijumbuk

WOOHOO! XD
lol thanks...that clears it up alot:rofl: