Calculating Torque with Angled Forces: A New Perspective

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    Force Torque
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around alternative methods for calculating torque, particularly when forces are applied at angles to the point of contact. Participants explore the implications of using components of force and the geometric relationships involved in torque calculation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether torque can be calculated by splitting a force into horizontal and vertical components when the force is applied at an angle, suggesting the use of the horizontal component (F sin(angle)) and measuring the distance from the pivot.
  • Another participant agrees with the initial inquiry, indicating that the torque formula can be understood through the dot product of the force vector and the distance vector, noting that the sine or cosine of the angle will depend on the angle's definition.
  • A later reply confirms the correctness of the initial participant's reasoning, expressing satisfaction with the clarification provided.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the validity of using components of force to calculate torque, but the discussion does not resolve all aspects of the method proposed.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the definitions of angles and the application of force components remain unaddressed, and the discussion does not delve into potential limitations or specific scenarios where the proposed method might not apply.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in mechanics, particularly those exploring torque calculations and the effects of angled forces on rotational dynamics.

minijumbuk
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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 vertical 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...:rolleyes:
 
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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:
minijumbuk said:
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 vertical 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...:rolleyes:

Very good, you are correct.
 
cyrusabdollahi said:
Very good, you are correct.
WOOHOO! XD
lol thanks...that clears it up a lot:smile:
 

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