Torque, Angular Momentum & Rotational Dynamics Explained | Chapter 10 of University Physics
Torque, Angular Momentum & Rotational Dynamics Explained | Chapter 10 of University Physics Chapter 10 of University Physics develops the rotational analogs of Newton’s laws by introducing torque, rotational dynamics, and angular momentum. We explore Στ=Iα, combined translational and rotational motion, work and power in rotation, conservation of angular momentum, and gyroscopic precession. Torque: The Rotational Force Torque (τ) measures a force’s ability to cause rotation about an axis. Defined as τ = r × F = r F sin(φ), torque uses the lever arm (perpendicular distance) and the right-hand rule to determine its direction. The SI unit is the newton-meter (N·m). Rotational Form of Newton’s Second Law For a rigid body about a fixed axis, the net torque equals rotational inertia times angular acceleration: Στ = I α This equation parallels F = m a in linear dynamics. Solving problems involves drawing free-body diagrams, choosing rotation axes, writing ΣF = m a and Στ = I ...