What does 'torque' refer to?

Torque specifically refers to rotational force, which is a measure of how much a force acting on an object causes that object to rotate. It is calculated as the product of the force applied and the distance from the pivot point (or axis of rotation) to where the force is applied. This means that both the magnitude of the force and the distance to the pivot are critical factors in determining the amount of torque generated.

In practical terms, torque is commonly encountered in applications such as tightening bolts and operating machinery where rotational motion is involved. Understanding torque is essential for building maintenance tasks that require the use of tools like wrenches and power equipment, enabling technicians to apply the right amount of force to achieve proper fastening and operational efficiency.