Rotation and Torque (HSC SSCE Physics): Flashcards

Rotational acceleration

$\tau$ (tau)

$\tau = rF \sin \theta$

N m (newton-metres), NOT joules

$90°$ (perpendicular to lever arm)

$\tau = rF$

Distance from pivot to force application point

Vector (has magnitude and direction)

Fingers on $\vec{r}$, curl to $\vec{F}$, thumb shows $\vec{\tau}$

Single point vs line in 3D space