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
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Is torque a vector or a scalar quantity? Thanks.
 
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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.
 

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