Is torque a vector or a scalar quantity?

AI Thread Summary
Torque is classified as a vector quantity because it possesses both magnitude and direction. The discussion highlights the confusion that can arise when considering torque in introductory problems, where forces often act in a single plane, making the orientation (clockwise versus counterclockwise) more relevant. Participants agree that while torque can seem scalar in simple scenarios, its vector nature is confirmed by its directional attributes. The distinction between scalar and vector quantities is emphasized, with scalars having only magnitude. Ultimately, torque is recognized as a vector due to its inherent directional characteristics.
JayDub
Messages
30
Reaction score
0
Is torque a vector or a scalar quantity? Thanks.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
It is a vector because it has direction.
 
Thanks, I was thinking that but then again I was thinking of scalar because it seems weird to say 110 T 89 degrees SofW
 
Torque is a vector. But in many introductory problems, the forces all act in a single plane and all that matters is the orientation of the torque (for example: clockwise versus counterclockwise).
 
Yeah, we are doing simple questions such as Tcw = Tccw to find out forces, lengths, angles or masses. So that is also why it was confusing me. Thanks both of you.
 
yeah it is a vector because it has direction. a scaler only has magnitude whilst a vector has magnitude and direction.
 
Thread 'Voltmeter readings for this circuit with switches'

Thread 'Voltmeter readings for this circuit with switches'

TL;DR Summary: I would like to know the voltmeter readings on the two resistors separately in the picture in the following cases , When one of the keys is closed When both of them are opened (Knowing that the battery has negligible internal resistance) My thoughts for the first case , one of them must be 12 volt while the other is 0 The second case we'll I think both voltmeter readings should be 12 volt since they are both parallel to the battery and they involve the key within what the...
View full post »
Thread 'Correct statement about a reservoir with an outlet pipe'

Thread 'Correct statement about a reservoir with an outlet pipe'

The answer to this question is statements (ii) and (iv) are correct. (i) This is FALSE because the speed of water in the tap is greater than speed at the water surface (ii) I don't even understand this statement. What does the "seal" part have to do with water flowing out? Won't the water still flow out through the tap until the tank is empty whether the reservoir is sealed or not? (iii) In my opinion, this statement would be correct. Increasing the gravitational potential energy of the...
View full post »

Similar threads

Suvat vector versus the scalar form
Replies
44
Views
4K
How can "work" done by a force be negative?
Replies
19
Views
1K
Is work a vector quantity in physics?
Replies
35
Views
4K
Difference between scalar and cross product
Replies
5
Views
1K
Surface Tension and Pressure Balance in a Spherical Water Drop
Replies
2
Views
2K
Static equilibrium | Uniform sphere on incline | Determining friction
Replies
43
Views
2K
B Is velocity ever a scalar quantity?
Replies
48
Views
4K
Torque calculation of CV joint
Replies
2
Views
959
Tension Question for Ship Container and Wind Gust
Replies
12
Views
1K
Quantities without unit of measure
Replies
36
Views
5K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top