Final answer:
Therefore, 23.1 N.m x 0.73756 ft-lb/N.m = 17.04 ft-lb.
To calculate the torque exerted while tightening a bolt, multiply the perpendicular force by the distance from the bolt's center; for a force of 165 N at a distance of 0.140 m, the torque is 23.1 N.m.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question involves designing a wrench for a bicycle and then focuses on the concept of torque, which is vital in physics, specifically when dealing with rotational motion.
Calculating Torque
(a) To find the torque (τ) you exert when tightening a bolt with a perpendicular force (F) at a distance (R) from the center of the bolt, you use the equation τ = R x F. With a force of 165 N applied at 0.140 m from the bolt, the torque is τ = 0.140 m x 165 N = 23.1 N.m.
Converting Torque to Foot-pounds
(b) To convert the torque from newton-meters to foot-pounds (ft-lb), use the conversion factor 1 N.m = 0.73756 ft-lb. Therefore, 23.1 N.m x 0.73756 ft-lb/N.m = 17.04 ft-lb.