How Do You Calculate Torque When Force is Applied at an Angle?

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SUMMARY

The calculation of torque when a force is applied at an angle involves using the formula T = r(Fperpendicular), where Fperpendicular is determined by Fsin(theta). In this discussion, a force of 76.0N is applied at an angle of 24.0 degrees to a box with dimensions of 2.69m by 1.04m. The user initially calculated the diagonal distance (r) as 2.88404m and incorrectly computed Fperpendicular as -68.823956N. The correct approach requires careful attention to the angle used in the calculations, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagram representation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of torque and its formula T = r(Fperpendicular)
  • Knowledge of trigonometric functions, specifically sine
  • Ability to apply the Pythagorean theorem for calculating distances
  • Familiarity with drawing and interpreting force diagrams
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the principles of torque calculation in physics
  • Study the application of trigonometric functions in force analysis
  • Learn how to accurately draw and interpret free-body diagrams
  • Practice solving torque problems with varying angles and forces
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics, as well as educators seeking to enhance their teaching methods in torque calculations.

Kamikaze
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Homework Statement


A Force F = 76.0N is applied to a box with dimensions y = 2.69m, x = 1.04m. The force is applied at an angle theta with respect to the horizontal as shown. For theata = 24.0 deg, calculate the magnitude of the torque produced by F about the point O.
2je4dad.png

Homework Equations


T=r(Fperpendicular)
Fperpendicular = Fsin(theta)

The Attempt at a Solution


I did pythagorean theorem (a2 + b2 = c2) to find the diagonal (r) at 2.88404m
I then found Fperpendicular by using Fperpendicular = 76Nsin(24deg) = -68.823956N . I then multiplied this by the r I found earlier to find the magnitude of Torque at -198.4911991N. Somehow this is wrong and I don't know how else to do it.
 
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Welcome to PF

Hi Kamikaze! Welcome to PF :smile:

(have a theta: θ and a degree: ° and try using the X2 tag just above the Reply box :wink:)
Kamikaze said:
I then found Fperpendicular by using Fperpendicular = 76Nsin(24deg)

wrong angle! :redface:

useful tip: always draw your diagrams fully … if you'd put in the extra lines, you'd see it isn't θ.
 

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