Torque vs Work through Distance

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Torque is a vector quantity defined as the cross product of the position vector and force, while work is a scalar quantity. The key difference in terms of distance is that torque relates to rotational motion and is calculated using the angle of rotation (theta), whereas work measures energy transfer along a linear path. When torque is applied, the work done is expressed as W = T*(theta), indicating the relationship between torque and angular distance. Although both torque and work share the same units, they represent different physical concepts. Understanding these distinctions clarifies their applications in physics.
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I know that torque is a vector quantity, whereas work is scalar.

But, in terms of the distances, what makes torque and work different?

Thanks!
 
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Torque (T) is a vector equal to r X F, where F is the force and r is the position vector (in length units) from a chosen point. When torque produces a rotation , theta, the work (W) done by that Torque is derived as W = T*(theta) (for constant torque and circular motion), where the angle theta, in radians, represents the angular 'distance' travelled. Work has no direction, but can be positive or negative. The units of work and torque are the same, but torque and work are not the same.
 
Thanks so much for the quick response -- that makes much more sense now.
 

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