AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based Flashcards: Torque
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 11 cards to help you master important concepts.
In the torque equation $\tau = rF\sin\theta$, what does the term $F\sin\theta$ represent?
The term $F\sin\theta$ represents the component of the force (F) that is perpendicular to the position vector (r).
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In the torque equation $\tau = rF\sin\theta$, what does the term $F\sin\theta$ represent?
The term $F\sin\theta$ represents the component of the force (F) that is perpendicular to the position vector (r).
What two key pieces of information must a force diagram include to analyze torques?
To analyze torques, a force diagram must show the forces being exerted and the location of the point of application for each force relative to the axis of rotation.
What is the equation for the magnitude of the torque exerted on a rigid system?
The magnitude of the torque exerted by a force is described by the equation: $\tau = rF\sin\theta$.
Which component of an applied force is responsible for creating torque?
Torque results only from the force component that is perpendicular to the position vector, which extends from the axis of rotation to the point where the force is applied.
What is the first step in analyzing the rotational motion of a rigid system?
The first step is to identify all the torques being exerted on the rigid system by external forces.
At what angle of application will a given force produce the maximum possible torque?
A force produces maximum torque when it is applied perpendicular to the position vector ($\theta = 90°$), because this makes $\sin\theta$ equal to its maximum value of 1.
What is the lever arm?
The lever arm is the perpendicular distance from the axis of rotation to the line of action of the exerted force.
How are torques on a rigid system visually represented?
Torques can be described using force diagrams, which depict the forces and the specific locations where they are exerted relative to the axis of rotation.
In the torque equation $\tau = rF\sin\theta$, what does 'r' represent?
The variable 'r' represents the magnitude of the position vector from the axis of rotation to the point where the force is applied.
What is torque?
Torque is the rotational equivalent of a force, which is generated by the component of an applied force that is perpendicular to the position vector from the axis of rotation.
If a force is applied parallel to the position vector from the axis of rotation, what is the resulting torque?
The resulting torque is zero. This is because the angle $\theta$ is 0° or 180°, and $\sin(0°) = \sin(180°) = 0$.