Understanding Torque: Exploring Its Definition and Effects on Objects

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In summary, torque is the same as a moment and is defined as the force applied at a distance from an axis of rotation. If a force of 10N is applied to a 10kg block at a location that is not its center of mass, it will not have a linear acceleration less than 1m/s/s. However, if the same force is applied to a block at its center of mass, it will require the same amount of force to accelerate. However, the work required to push the block at its center of mass will be greater due to the greater distance traveled. The difficulty of pushing the block depends on the definition of "harder to push".
  • #1
member 529879
What exactly is torque? Also if a force of 10N was applied to a 10kg block in a location that is not at its center of mass, does the block have a linear acceleration less than 1m/s/s?
 
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  • #2
Torque is the same as a moment. Do you understand what a moment is?
 
  • #3
Scheuerf said:
What exactly is torque?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torque
Scheuerf said:
Also if a force of 10N was applied to a 10kg block in a location that is not at its center of mass, does the block have a linear acceleration less than 1m/s/s?
No.
 
  • #4
Okay so if you have two situations where you push a 10kg block each with the same force, but only one is being pushed at its center of mass, they should require the same force to accelerate. But does one situation require more energy than the other, and is one block harder to push?
 
  • #5

What is torque?

Torque is a measurement of the twisting or rotational force applied to an object. It is calculated by multiplying the force applied to the object by the distance from the axis of rotation to the point where the force is applied.

How does torque affect objects?

Torque can cause an object to rotate or change its rotational speed, depending on its direction and magnitude. It can also cause an object to deform or break if the torque is too great.

What are some real-life examples of torque?

Some examples of torque in everyday life include opening a door, using a wrench to tighten a bolt, and riding a bicycle. Torque is also important in machines and engines, such as car engines and turbines.

How is torque different from force?

Torque is a type of force that causes rotational motion, while force is a more general term for any push or pull on an object. Torque is specific to rotational motion, while force can be applied in any direction.

What are some factors that affect torque?

The two main factors that affect torque are the magnitude of the force applied and the distance from the axis of rotation to the point where the force is applied. Other factors include the angle at which the force is applied and the shape and size of the object.

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