Question

if the torque required to loosen a nut that is holding a flat tire in place on a car has a magnitude of 46 N*m, what minimum force must be exerted by the mechanic at the end of a 21 cm-long wrench to loosen the nut? answer on units of N.

Answer 1

Hi there!

Recall the equation for torque:
$\large\boxed{\Sigma \tau = rF}$

∑τ = Net Torque (Nm)

r = lever arm (m)

F = Force (N)

Rearrange to solve for force:

$F = \frac{\tau}{r}$

Plug in the givens:

$F = \frac{45}{0.21} = \boxed{219.05 N}$