Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
Net external torque represents the sum total effect produced by all external torques acting on an object or system. It determines the rate at which an object's angular momentum changes.
Related terms
Torque arm: Torque arm refers to the perpendicular distance between the axis of rotation and where a force is applied, affecting the magnitude of torque.
Rotational equilibrium: Rotational equilibrium occurs when an object's net torque is zero, resulting in no rotational acceleration.
Lever arm: Lever arm represents the perpendicular distance between an axis of rotation and where a force is applied, influencing both torque and mechanical advantage.