PHYS1171 Lecture Notes - Lecture 4: Net Force, Dynamic Equilibrium, International System Of Units
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Where the subscript indicates that we are using the perpendicular component of the force, and d is the distance that the force is applied from a pint called the fulcrum. The units of torque are nm (newton-metre): any point may be chosen as the fulcrum, but we generally choose the point about which the object is rotating. Once the position of the fulcrum is chosen, we must calculate all torques on an object about this point. Its speed or rate of rotation will only change if a net force, or a net torque is applied to it. Quiz: torque is a type of force. False: the position of the fulcrum must be at the centre of rotation of the object. Important because it allows us to determine if an object is stable- if it is supported at or directly below the centre of mass, then the system is stable to gravitational forces. Stability of an object acted on by gravity.
