Torque: a force that causes or opposes rotation
τ = r × F
τ = rFsinθ
τ = rFsinθ
where:
- τ = torque
- r = position vector (from the where the torque is measured to the point of force application)
- × = the cross product (a vector whose magnitude is equal to the product of the magnitudes of the two vectors in consideration and the sine of the smaller angle in between them)
- F = force
- θ = angle between r and F
Torque is measured in Newton metres (N•m or N m)
Torque in Figure Skating
The word torque comes from the latin word "torquere", which means "to twist". Torque is used in the entry of spins and the take-offs of jumps.
When a figure skater jumps or spins, they must apply a force to the ice that will cause torque.
Look at this equation: τ = r × F
This equation means, you get greater torque with lots of force (from the reaction force of pushing against the ice with your skate) or if there is force far away from your axis of rotation. The larger the moment of inertia, the more force it will take to start spinning. The larger the torque, the greater your angular momentum and the more spins you will achieve.
When a figure skater jumps or spins, they must apply a force to the ice that will cause torque.
Look at this equation: τ = r × F
This equation means, you get greater torque with lots of force (from the reaction force of pushing against the ice with your skate) or if there is force far away from your axis of rotation. The larger the moment of inertia, the more force it will take to start spinning. The larger the torque, the greater your angular momentum and the more spins you will achieve.