Net Torque
Definition
Net torque refers to the sum of all torques acting on an object. It determines the rate at which an object's rotational motion changes and can cause objects to accelerate or decelerate their rotation.
Analogy
Imagine a merry-go-round with multiple children pushing it from different directions. The net torque is the combined effect of all their pushes, determining whether the merry-go-round speeds up, slows down, or remains at a constant speed.
Related terms
Equilibrium: In rotational dynamics, equilibrium occurs when the net torque acting on an object is zero, resulting in no change in its rotational motion.
Lever Arm: The lever arm is the perpendicular distance between the axis of rotation and the line of action of a force applied to cause rotation.
Center of Mass: The center of mass is a point within an object where its entire mass can be considered concentrated for calculating rotational motion.
"Net Torque" appears in:
Study guides (1)
Practice Questions (3)
If the net torque on a rod is -5.0 N*m and a person already applies a torque of 10.0 N*m, what torque must the other person be applying to the rod? Assume standard rotational convention.
What is the change in angular momentum of a metal rod initially at rest that experiences a net torque of 24 N*m over a span of 10 seconds?
If an object has a net torque acting on it then ____
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