- Basic Formula
- Torque (τ) equals force (F) multiplied by distance (r) from rotational point
- Force perpendicular to moment arm produces greatest torque
- Torque is positive counterclockwise, negative clockwise
- Radial Vector Method
- Force applied at angle to radial vector creates radial vector
- Distance measured from axis to force application point
- Angle measured to right of force vector
- Torque calculated using sine of angle
- 3D Method
- Uses moment of inertia (I) and angular acceleration (α)
- Moment of inertia measured in kg∙m²
- Angular acceleration measured in radians/s²
- Torque calculated by multiplying moment of inertia and angular acceleration
- Additional Information
- Torque calculation requires algebra, geometry, and trigonometry
- Net torque equals zero for balanced systems
- Work equation differs from torque equation in force direction