External Torque
Definition
External torque refers to the rotational force applied to an object by an external agent, causing it to rotate around a fixed axis. It is the net torque acting on an object due to forces external to the system.
Analogy
Imagine you are trying to open a stubborn jar lid. You apply force at the edge of the lid using a wrench, creating an external torque that causes the lid to rotate and eventually open.
Related terms
Moment of Inertia: Moment of inertia is a measure of an object's resistance to changes in its rotational motion. It depends on both mass distribution and shape.
Angular Acceleration: Angular acceleration refers to how quickly an object's angular velocity changes over time. It is caused by applying a net torque on the object.
Conservation of Angular Momentum: Conservation of angular momentum states that if no external torques act on a rotating system, then its total angular momentum remains constant.
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