What Is Torque?

This interactive presentation, created by Terry Bartelt for the Electromechanical Digital Library, discusses the concept: "What is torque?" Bartelt begins with a simple example of torque, illustrated using a crank, pail, and water well. After this important introduction, the author introduces the student to the mathematics behind torque. Four different scenarios are used to help students walk through the calculations. Bartelt explains each using helpful interactive flash animations. These are not only useful in the explanation, but they allow the student to more fully engage with the topic. Overall, this is a nice introduction into both the physical and mathematical concept of force. The author concludes the presentation with a brief series of questions.