The formula for calculating the moment of a force, also known as torque, depends on the conditions of the force and the axis of rotation. Assuming we are dealing with a force applied at a perpendicular distance from the axis of rotation, the formula is:
Moment of force (torque) = Force × Perpendicular distance × sin(θ)
Where:
- Force is the magnitude of the force applied.
- Perpendicular distance is the shortest distance between the axis of rotation and the line of action of the force.
- θ is the angle between the force vector and the line connecting the axis of rotation to the point of application of the force. Note that this angle must be measured in radians.
This formula takes into account the fact that the effectiveness of a force in causing rotational motion depends on both the magnitude of the force and its lever arm (the perpendicular distance between the force and the axis of rotation).
It's important to note that if the force is applied parallel to the axis of rotation (perpendicular distance = 0), the moment of force will be zero, as there would be no tendency to cause rotational motion.