Final answer:
Torque is the rotational equivalent of a force and is defined as the product of the force and the perpendicular distance from the axis of rotation. It can cause an object to rotate and its direction depends on the force and the perpendicular distance. Torque is measured in Newton-meters (Nm).
Step-by-step explanation:
Torque is the rotational equivalent of a force and is a measure of the effectiveness of a force in changing or accelerating a rotation. It is defined as the product of the force and the perpendicular distance from the axis of rotation. Torque can cause an object to rotate and its direction depends on the direction of the force and the direction of the perpendicular distance.
Torque is measured in Newton-meters (Nm). For example, if you push perpendicular to a door with a force of 40 N at a distance of 0.800 m from the , you exert a torque of 32 N·m (0.800 m x 40 N x sin 90°) relative.