What is the definition of torque?

Torque is defined as the rotational force around an axis. It is a measure of how effective a force is in causing an object to rotate. Torque depends on two key factors: the magnitude of the force applied and the distance from the point of rotation (also known as the pivot point or axis of rotation) at which the force is applied.

The mathematical expression for torque (τ) is given by the equation τ = r × F, where 'r' is the lever arm (the perpendicular distance from the axis of rotation to the line of action of the force) and 'F' is the applied force. This relationship shows that for a given force, increasing the distance from the pivot will increase the torque, making the object easier to rotate.

Understanding torque is essential in various applications, such as in mechanical systems, automotive engineering, and physics problems involving rotational dynamics. The concept directly relates to how forces affect the motion of an object in rotation, distinguishing it from other definitions like linear force or speed of motion.