Torque Calculator Formula
Understand the math behind the torque calculator. Each variable explained with a worked example.
Formulas Used
Torque
torque = force * radius * sin(angle_rad)Variables
| Variable | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|
force | Applied Force(N) | 50 |
radius | Lever Arm Distance(m) | 0.3 |
angle | Angle Between Force and Lever(degrees) | 90 |
angle_rad | Derived value= angle * pi / 180 | calculated |
How It Works
Torque (Moment of Force)
Torque measures the tendency of a force to cause rotation about an axis.
Formula
tau = F * r * sin(theta)
Maximum torque occurs when the force is perpendicular to the lever arm (theta = 90 degrees).
Worked Example
A 50 N force is applied perpendicular to a 0.3 m wrench.
- 01tau = F * r * sin(theta)
- 02tau = 50 * 0.3 * sin(90°)
- 03tau = 50 * 0.3 * 1
- 04tau = 15 N·m
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the unit of torque?
In SI, torque is measured in newton-meters (N·m). Although dimensionally identical to joules, torque is not energy.
When is torque maximized?
Torque is maximized when the force is applied perpendicular to the lever arm (theta = 90°), because sin(90°) = 1.
How does torque relate to angular acceleration?
By Newton's second law for rotation: tau = I * alpha, where I is moment of inertia and alpha is angular acceleration.
Learn More
Guide
How to Calculate Torque: Formulas, Units, and Real-World Applications
Master torque calculations for engineering applications. Covers torque formulas, moment arms, units conversion, motor torque, bolt torque, and the relationship between torque, speed, and power.
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