Torque

From FIRSTwiki

Rigourous Definition

Torque is the cross-product of the radius and force vectors (), in that order. If the torque exerted by a motor on its axle is known, one can find the force exerted at a different distance from the center.

Conceptual Definition

Here is another way to think about torque. Imagine a bar that is two feet long is connected to the shaft of your drive train, and a constant force of 20 pounds is applied. This is equivalent to 40 'foot-pounds' of torque (2*20). As power is (torque * angular velocity) and the power of a motor is constant, tradeoffs have to be made between torque and speed. Torque is necessary for pushing and climbing, and speed is necessary for, well, speed. A carefully designed transmission lets you get the best of both worlds, allowing you to switch between torque and speed (within the limitations of the motor of course.)