What is the net torque on a square metal plate if given three forces?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the net torque on a square metal plate subjected to three forces. The plate is pivoted at its center, and the forces are defined with specific magnitudes. There is confusion regarding the sign convention for torque, with a clarification that counterclockwise (CCW) torques are typically considered positive, while clockwise (CW) torques are negative. A participant realizes their error in calculating the torque due to force F3 after further consideration. The thread emphasizes the importance of correctly applying the sign convention and accurately recalculating torques.
ahero4eternity
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A square metal plate 0.180 meters on each side is pivoted about an axis through point O at its center and perpendicular to the plate.

Calculate the net torque about this axis due to the three forces shown in the figure if the magnitudes of the forces are F1 = 18.0 N F2 = 27.0 N and F3 = 14.0 N. The plate and all forces are in the plane of the page.




Torque = Force x Length
Length = 1/2 x 0.180
Torque = radius x F sin theta




T1 (1.62) - T2 (2.43) - T3 (1.26) = -2.07

Shouldn't T1 be positive since it is going in the CW direction, while T2 and T3 are negative since they are going in the CCW direction? Where am I going wrong?
 
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ahero4eternity said:
T1 (1.62) - T2 (2.43) - T3 (1.26) = -2.07

Shouldn't T1 be positive since it is going in the CW direction, while T2 and T3 are negative since they are going in the CCW direction? Where am I going wrong?
The usual sign convention is to take CCW torques to be positive and CW torques to be negative. More important that sign convention: Recalculate the torque due to force F3.
 
Thanks. After 15 mins of struggling, I finally figured it out where I went wrong with T3. :)
 
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