(physics,mechanics) A rotational or twisting effect of aforce; amoment of force, defined for measurement purposes as an equivalent straight line force multiplied by the distance from theaxis ofrotation (SI unitnewton-metre orN·m; imperial unitpound-foot or lb·ft, not to be confused with thefoot pound-force, commonly "foot-pound", a unit of work or energy)
Alternative form:τ(symbol as variable in equations)
1978, James Richard Wertz,Spacecraft Attitude Determination and Control[1], Springer, page17:
The relative strengths of the varioustorques will depend on both the spacecraft environment and the form and structure of the spacecraft itself.
2006, Department of Mining Engineering,Proceedings: 35th International Conference on Ground Control in Mining, volume25, West Virginia University, page162:
The drillhead produces the drilling rotation andtorque but also must slide out of position to allow the machine to manipulate the finisher drill steel and consumables.
But there are the lesser sub-kings of Wales, true to the immemorial schisms amongst themselves, which destroyed the realm of Ambrosius, and rendered vain the arm of Arthur. With theirtorques of gold, and wild eyes, and hair cut round ears and brow, they stare on the scene.
^Douglas Harper (2001–2026), “torque (n.)”, inOnline Etymology Dictionary: “The word also is used (since 1834) by antiquarians and others[…], from Latintorques "collar of twisted metal," fromtorquere. Earlier it had been called in Englishtorques (1690s).”
Garland D. Bills, Neddy A. Vigil (2008),The Spanish Language of New Mexico and Southern Colorado: A Linguistic Atlas[4], University of New Mexico Press,→ISBN
Rubén Cobos (2003),A Dictionary of New Mexico & Southern Colorado Spanish[5], Museum of New Mexico Press,→ISBN
