TORQUE

Torque is a measure of the rotational force applied to an object around an axis. It causes an object to rotate around that axis. Here's a breakdown:

1. **Diagram**: Imagine a wrench turning a bolt. The force applied by the wrench perpendicular to its lever arm (the distance from the pivot point to where the force is applied) creates torque, causing the bolt to turn.

2. **Units**: Torque is measured in newton-meters (N·m) in the metric system or foot-pounds (ft·lb) in the imperial system.

3. **Example**: Consider a wrench tightening a bolt. If you apply a force of 10 Newtons at the end of a wrench that is 0.5 meters long, the torque would be 5 N·m (10 N * 0.5 m). This torque would cause the bolt to rotate around its axis.

In essence, torque is the product of force and the perpendicular distance from the point of application to the axis of rotation. It's essential in understanding the mechanics of rotating objects, from machinery to vehicles.