Grandfather clock torque homework

[mvl46566]

Homework Statement

A 55 g mouse runs out to the end of the 17cm long hand of an old grandfather clock when the clock reads 10min past the hour. What torque does the mouse exert about the rotation axis of the clock hand.

Homework Equations

Torque=rFsin(theta)

The Attempt at a Solution

The force acting on the mouse is his weight, so F=mg which turns out to be .55N. The radius, in meters, is .17m. Here's the tricky part, theta describes the angle between the force and the radius, so, if it is 10 past the hour, the long hand is making a 30 degree angle with the x-axis (or the 3 on a clock). The force, long hand, and x-axis make a 90 degree angle so if the angle the long hand makes with the axis is 30 degrees and the angle force makes with the axis is 90 degrees then theta must equal 60 degrees.

That is my logic but I am not sure how sound it is. If anyone can help confirm or deny this it would be much appreciated!

 

[ideasrule]

Yup, your reasoning is sound.

 

[kerimek]

I would first like to commend your approach to solving this problem. It is important to carefully consider all the variables and angles involved in order to come up with an accurate solution. Your logic seems sound, but I would suggest double checking your calculations just to be sure. Also, it may be helpful to draw a diagram to visualize the situation and confirm your reasoning about the angles involved. Overall, your approach is a good example of the scientific method in action. Keep up the good work!