Lab Manual 2005

TorqueSituation: Have you ever used a wrench to loosen a nut that was rusted or corroded? Thewrench is a tool that can generate a twisting action on the nut (which we will refer to asthe “pivot”). In physics we refer to a term called “Torque” which is kind of difficult todefine conceptually with good clarity. Probably the best way to define torque is to saythat it is an entity that attempts to twist or rotate an object. The use of the word “entity”leaves a lot to the imagination but comparing torque with force may be helpful. Just asforces attempt to change an objects linear velocity, torque attempts to change an objectsangular velocity (rate of rotation).1. What do you supply to make the wrench twist around the nut?2. Does the location of your hand on the wrench handle play an important role indetermining how strong a twisting action is generated?3. If the nut was stuck really tight what changes could we try to help generate a strongertwisting action?PART 1Purpose:Materials:To develop a mathematical model (equation) that expresses how Torque is relatedto Force, and Lever arm length. (Angle of the force kept constant and at 90° to thelever arm)A metre stick, lever holder, string, a force sensor, MPLI and Graphical AnalysisProcedure: For this test, take your metre stick as a lever and place a lever holder exactly atthe balance point and place it on the pivot. Have the right side of the lever extended overthe edge of the bench.- 57 -