Calculate Torque Vector for Force F at r - Dot Product

Thread starter bcddd214
Start date May 22, 2011
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In summary, torque vector is a measure of rotational force and is calculated by taking the cross product of the force and position vectors. The dot product is involved in finding the component of the force vector perpendicular to the position vector. It is important in understanding stability and equilibrium, and the direction of the torque vector determines the direction of rotation. Other factors that affect torque vector include the direction and magnitude of the position vector, the angle between the force and position vectors, and the properties of the object.

May 22, 2011

bcddd214

Homework Statement

A force F=3i ̂+0.5j ̂-5k ̂(N)is applied to a partial located at r=2i ̂+4k ̂(m)
Determine the torque vector?

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The Attempt at a Solution

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May 22, 2011

ideasrule

Homework Helper

Torque is defined as r cross F. Do you know how to compute a cross product?

FAQ: Calculate Torque Vector for Force F at r - Dot Product

What is torque vector and how is it calculated?

Torque vector is a measure of the rotational force acting on an object. It is calculated by taking the cross product of the force vector and the position vector from the point of rotation to the point where the force is applied.

How is the dot product involved in calculating torque vector?

The dot product is used to find the component of the force vector that is perpendicular to the position vector. This component is then multiplied by the magnitude of the position vector to find the magnitude of the torque vector.

Can you explain the physical significance of torque vector?

Torque vector represents the tendency of a force to rotate an object around a fixed axis. It is important in understanding the stability and equilibrium of objects and is essential in many engineering and physics applications.

How does the direction of torque vector affect the rotation of an object?

The direction of the torque vector determines the direction of the rotational movement of an object. If the torque vector is in the same direction as the angular velocity, the object will rotate in that direction. If the torque vector is in the opposite direction, the object will rotate in the opposite direction.

Are there any other factors that affect torque vector besides force and position?

Yes, the direction and magnitude of the position vector also affect the torque vector. Additionally, the angle between the force and position vectors plays a role in calculating the magnitude of the torque vector. The properties of the object, such as its mass and shape, can also impact the torque vector.