The magic of torque

Meter stick challenge

Earlier this week Emma and I were tasked with finding the weight of a meter stick by using a 100 gram weight. To tackle the task we used our knowledge of torques and lever arms to help us.

Steps to complete the task

1   1)      Attach the weight at the end so the weight is evenly distributed over the edge.

2   2)      Balance the stick to find that it will balance 25 cm from the end with the weight.

3   3)      Create an equation so that both torques are equal.

4   4)      Solve for weight.

Equation for torque

Force * lever arm = Torque

.98*25 cm = Torque

Since both torques had to be the same for the stick to balance solving for weight of the stick is as easy as making sure the forces were equal, revealing the weight of the stick at 98.1 grams.

Looking back

I wish that I had helped Emma understand the concept better, since I feel as though I took the driver’s seat. I also wish I had been a smidge more precise in my calculations as we still had a 1% error.

Torque converters

This video does a great job of showing how torque is used in machines. This piggy backs off my fist post. I also like how it shows how the converter uses gear changes, creating different speeds. It is also interesting how the converter relies on the force of spinning. This video helped me understand torque in cars. I do wish there had been more mathematical analysis.

Torque

Lawn Mower Performance: How Torque Gets It Done

The concept of torque isn't new. It has been a measurement of power in such things as motorsport racing, skiing, golf, and other activities that use or require a twisting turning motion.

It is the power to turn something.  And in outdoor power equipment, torque is the most direct way to determine an engine’s ability to get the job done.  Torque is the work power generated by the engine that keeps the blade spinning on your mower, drives the pump on your pressure washer, and turns the alternator on your portable generator.  More torque means improved performance.  And the more torque you have, the better.

From Briggs and Stratton: http://www.briggsandstratton.com/us/en/engines/push-mower-engines/engines-101/torque-gets-it-done

I mow my lawn, and in the past decided on mowers depending on their deck, but after reading this article I now know that all machines should be looked at by their capability to produce torque. This helped me understand torque, since before it seemed like this abstract thought but it is not at all. Torque is present in every machine used daily. One thing I wish they would have done better would have been to add more about the physics of why this worked, but it still allowed me to grasp the concept better.