engineering

Torque

A rotational force that causes an object to rotate around an axis, measured in newton-meters or foot-pounds.

Torque is the rotational equivalent of linear force. It describes how much a force causes an object to rotate.

Formula

τ = F × d × sin(θ)

Where τ = torque, F = force applied, d = distance from the axis (lever arm), θ = angle between force and lever arm.

Units

  • SI: Newton-meters (N·m)
  • Imperial: Foot-pounds (ft·lbs)

Real-World Applications

Torque is used when tightening bolts (torque wrenches), measuring engine performance, and designing mechanical systems. Engine torque determines acceleration capability.

Related Calculators

📊 Torque Calculator

Related Terms

Ohm's Law

The relationship between voltage, current, and resistance in an electrical circuit: V = I × R.

Kilowatt-Hour (kWh)

A unit of energy equal to using 1,000 watts of power for one hour.

BTU (British Thermal Unit)

A unit of heat energy equal to the amount needed to raise one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.

Thermal Conductivity

A material property that measures how well it conducts heat, expressed in watts per meter-kelvin (W/m·K).

Specific Heat Capacity

The amount of heat energy required to raise the temperature of one unit mass of a substance by one degree.

Stress and Strain

Stress is the internal force per unit area in a material; strain is the resulting deformation (change in shape or size).