Understanding Torque Vector Direction: The Right Hand Rule Explained

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The discussion focuses on the application of the right hand rule for understanding torque vector direction. One participant struggles to align their fingers correctly with the vectors, resulting in confusion about the direction of the torque. Another participant emphasizes the importance of using the right hand and ensuring that fingers align with the vectors' directions. They suggest repositioning the vectors to start from the same point to facilitate proper finger placement. Proper application of the right hand rule is essential for accurately determining torque direction.
alingy1
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Hi,

I was looking at this picture. I can't seem to get the right hand rule to work. I put my thumb on vector r and my index on vector F. My middle finger points INTO the page!
 

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Hello.

Are you sure you are using your right hand? My middle finger of the right hand points out of the page.
 
Don't just place your fingers over the vectors. Also make sure that your fingers point in the same direction as the vectors. It's OK to move the vectors around (as long as they don't turn or stretch/shrink) so that they start at the same spot. That might help since your fingers do start in a single spot (sort of) AKA your hand.
 

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