Describe the concept of torque and its relation... - SS2 Physics Mechanics - Laws of Motion Question

Torque is a measure of the tendency of a force to cause rotational motion around a point or axis. It plays a vital role in understanding rotational equilibrium. For an object to be in rotational equilibrium, the net torque acting on it must be zero. This means that the clockwise and counterclockwise torques must balance each other. The torque produced by a force is determined by its magnitude, the perpendicular distance from the force's line of action to the axis of rotation, and the angle between the force and the line connecting the point of application to the axis of rotation.

 

By applying the principles of torque and rotational equilibrium, engineers can analyse and design systems involving rotational motion, such as gears, levers, and rotational machinery. Understanding torque is also crucial in fields like biomechanics, where the balance of forces and torques is essential for studying human movement and designing prosthetics.