Physics - Mechanics - Rotational Motion - Torque - Understanding Torque

A 5-step lesson. Step 1: 'Torque (τ) is the rotational equivalent of force. It makes things rotate, just as force makes things accelerate linearly. τ = r × F × sin(θ)' where r = distance from pivot, F = force, θ = angle between r and F. Units: N·m. Step 2: 'Maximum torque when force is perpendicular