Torque Calculation: Direction of F1 & F2

In summary, torque is the measure of the force that causes an object to rotate around an axis, calculated by multiplying the force applied to an object by the distance from the pivot point. The direction of F1 and F2 in torque calculation depends on the direction of rotation of the object, determined by using the right-hand rule. Torque can be negative, indicating opposite direction of rotation, and the distance from the pivot point affects torque calculation by increasing the lever arm and allowing for more force to be applied.
  • #1
oneplusone
127
2
Hello,

Is there a rule to figure out what direction a force must be applied in a torque problem?
Here's a specific example with a question:

In this video, how did he get the direction of F1 and F2? Like how did he know it was pointing upwards or downwards?
 
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  • #2
After awhile, you'll get a good sense a of the direction of the unknown forces in many problems, but otherwise, you can assume a direction. Then when you sum torques about a point = 0, if the force comes out negative, you assumed the wrong direction.
 

1. What is torque and how is it calculated?

Torque is the measure of the force that causes an object to rotate around an axis. It is calculated by multiplying the force applied to an object by the distance from the pivot point to where the force is applied. The unit for torque is Newton-meters (N∙m).

2. What is the direction of F1 and F2 in torque calculation?

F1 and F2 represent the two forces acting on an object in a torque calculation. The direction of F1 and F2 depends on the direction of rotation of the object. If the object is rotating clockwise, F1 will be applied clockwise and F2 will be applied counterclockwise. If the object is rotating counterclockwise, F1 will be applied counterclockwise and F2 will be applied clockwise.

3. How do you determine the direction of rotation in torque calculation?

The direction of rotation in a torque calculation can be determined by using the right-hand rule. Simply point your right thumb in the direction of the force and curl your fingers. The direction in which your fingers curl is the direction of rotation.

4. Can torque be negative?

Yes, torque can be negative. This indicates that the object is rotating in the opposite direction as the force applied. The negative sign in torque calculations indicates the direction of rotation, not the magnitude of the force.

5. How does the distance from the pivot point affect torque calculation?

The distance from the pivot point is a crucial factor in torque calculation. The longer the distance from the pivot point, the greater the torque will be. This is because a longer distance increases the lever arm, allowing for more force to be applied to the object.

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