Calculate Torque About Axis B: F, θ, ϕ, π Involved

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AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the torque τB about axis B due to a force F, specifically at the point (0, b) on the y-axis. The correct expression for torque is identified as τB = bF sin(π/2 + θ), contrary to the initial assumption of π/2 - θ. The confusion arises from understanding the angle between the position vector r and the force vector F, with clarification that the sine function's properties allow for the use of either angle. The importance of the perpendicular component of the force relative to the position vector is emphasized. Ultimately, the discussion resolves around the correct interpretation of angles in torque calculations.
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Homework Statement


What is the torque τB about axis B due to the force F⃗ ? (B is the point at Cartesian coordinates (0,b), located a distance b from the origin along the y axis.)
Express the torque about axis B in terms of F, θ, ϕ, π, and/or other given coordinate data.
1011154B.jpg

Homework Equations

[/B]
τ = RF sin (θ)

The Attempt at a Solution


So I know that the answer is Tb = bFsin (pi/2+θ)
What I don't understand is how to get pi/2+θ?
I know that θ is the angle between r vector and F vector and since that's the case shouldn't the answer be pi/2-θ?
 

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Can you please show us your own effort? What did you get?
 
Orodruin said:
Can you please show us your own effort? What did you get?
Well I thought the answer was Tb = bFsin (pi/2-θ) but that's obviously wrong. I would like to know why. My homework says that alpha is the angle between r vector and F vector therefore I thought that it would be pi/2-θ.
 
The angle ##\alpha## is drawn in the figure. Note that the vector ##\vec r## is the vector from the point relative to which you want to know the torque to the point where the force acts. In this case the vector from B to A.

Edit: Also note that, since what matters is the component of ##\vec F## perpendicular to ##\vec r##, it does not matter if you use ##\alpha## or ##\pi - \alpha## since
$$
\sin(\pi - \alpha) = \sin(\pi)\cos(\alpha) - \cos(\pi)\sin(\alpha) = 0 + \sin(\alpha) = \sin(\alpha).
$$
It holds that
$$
\sin(\pi/2 - \theta) = \sin(\pi/2)\cos(\theta) - \sin(\theta)\cos(\pi/2) = \cos(\theta)\sin(\pi/2)
= \cos(\theta)\sin(\pi/2) + \sin(\theta)\cos(\pi/2) = \sin(\pi/2 + \theta).
$$
 
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