What is torque?

Torque is essentially a measure of the twisting force that causes an object to rotate around an axis. Think of it like the effort you use when you twist a doorknob or a jar lid – the harder you twist, the more torque you’re applying! It’s calculated as the product of the force applied and the distance from the point of rotation (known as the lever arm). This nifty little force is crucial in engineering, mechanics, and even in everyday tasks. Now, imagine you're a superhero with the power to tighten or loosen bolts effortlessly. In real life, torque comes into play every time you drive a car or use a power tool. For instance, when changing a flat tire, knowing how much torque to apply is key for safety and performance. It ensures bolts are secured enough to withstand driving but not so tight that you can’t remove them!