Torque & Joules: Fact or Fiction?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between torque and joules, specifically addressing the confusion surrounding their units. Torque is defined as the product of force and the perpendicular distance from the pivot point, typically measured in Newton-meters (N-m), while energy is measured in joules. Although both units can be equivalent mathematically, it is misleading to refer to torque in joules due to the differing definitions of displacement in each context. The conversation also touches on angular displacement and the calculation of work done by torque, emphasizing the need for a clear understanding of these concepts in physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of torque and its definition in physics
  • Familiarity with units of measurement: Newton-meters and joules
  • Basic knowledge of angular displacement and radians
  • Concept of work done in both linear and rotational motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the differences between torque and energy in physics
  • Learn about angular displacement and its implications in rotational mechanics
  • Study the concept of couples in mechanics and their role in torque generation
  • Explore the mathematical relationship between linear and angular work
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of torque and energy in mechanics, particularly in the context of rotational motion.

  • #31
A.T. said:
There is only one force in the definition of torque. So what "two forces" are you taking about?
I only studied torque in electromagnetism, what I know about is that when two equal forces opposite in direction and have different line of actions act on a coil, it's affected by a torque.
 
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  • #32
ElmorshedyDr said:
I only studied torque in electromagnetism, what I know about is that when two equal forces opposite in direction and have different line of actions act on a coil, it's affected by a torque.
Haven't you studied this?
 
  • #33
adjacent said:
Haven't you studied this?
No, I didn't study Torque in a mechanics class, it was a physics class and specifically in electromagnetism.
 
  • #34
ElmorshedyDr said:
I only studied torque in electromagnetism, what I know about is that when two equal forces opposite in direction and have different line of actions act on a coil, it's affected by a torque.
You are thinking of a couple, where two forces are used to create a torque without producing a net force. See: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Couple_(mechanics)
 
  • #35
  • #36
  • #37
ElmorshedyDr said:
Is the energy done by a couple is equal to zero ?
Why should it be zero?
If the rod starts rotating,it gains rotational kinetic energy.
 
  • #38
adjacent said:
Why should it be zero?

If the rod starts rotating,it gains rotational kinetic energy.
I have no idea about rotational mechanics, linear only.
 
  • #39
ElmorshedyDr said:
I have no idea about rotational mechanics, linear only.


You will have a very difficult time understanding toque thinking only about linear mechanics.
 

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