Torque is the rotational counterpart of force that causes an object to rotate about its axis. Torque is calculated as the product of the lever arm, or distance from the axis of rotation, and the applied force. A seesaw provides an example where balancing requires the right combination of mass and distance from the center to equalize the torque. Torque is calculated in the example of a 500 Newton force applied to a 25 cm wrench at a right angle, yielding a torque of 125 Newton-meters.

1. 3. Torque
▪ Torque(rhymes with fork) is:
- the rotational counterpart of force.
- a force which causes an object to turn or rotate about its axis.
- differs from force just as rotational inertia differed from inertia.
▪ The distance between the applied force and the axis of rotation is
important. This distance is referred to as the lever arm.

2. 3. Torque
▪ Torque(rhymes with fork) is:
- the product of the lever arm and the force applied.
Torque = lever arm x force
▪ A see-saw is a good example of torque. To balance the see-saw you
have to get just the right combination of mass and distance from
the center. When the see-saw is balanced when the 250 N child is 3
meters from the center and the 500 N child is 1.5m from the center.
Both have equal torque (750 Nm).

3. 3. Torque
▪ Example:
What torque is generated on a bolt when a force of 500 Newton’s
is applied at a right angle to a 25 cm wrench?
Torque = Force x lever arm = (500N)(0.24 m) = 125 Nm