What is the Difference Between Force and Torque?

Force and torque are two concepts often used in mechanics, but they have distinct differences in terms of their nature, application, and effect:

1. Definition:

• Force is an action that results in a body changing its motion or altering its path. It is a vector quantity, meaning it has both size and direction. Force is measured in Newtons (N) or pounds-force (lbf).
• Torque is the measure of the rotational force applied to an object. It is a vector quantity defined as the product of force and the distance between the force and the axis of rotation. Torque is typically measured in newton-meters (Nm) or foot-pounds (ft-lbs).

1. Type of Acceleration:

• Force causes linear acceleration, which involves changing the velocity of an object in a straight line.
• Torque causes angular acceleration, which involves changing the rotational velocity of an object around an axis.

1. Effect on Object:

• Force causes an object to move in a particular direction, such as in the case of pushing or pulling an object.
• Torque causes an object to rotate around an axis, such as when a wrench is used to tighten a bolt.

In summary, force is responsible for linear motion, while torque is responsible for rotational motion.

Comparative Table: Force vs Torque

Here is a table comparing the differences between force and torque:

In summary, force is a push or pull on an object due to its interaction with another object, and it causes linear motion or deceleration. On the other hand, torque is a measure of the force that can cause an object to rotate about an axis, and it produces angular acceleration.