Answer to Question #284405 in Physics for Lia

Question

The following are sports/events that utilizes the concept of torque. Briefly explain how this concept is used.

1. Volleyball

2. Bodybuilding

3. Arm wrestling

4. Golf

5. Running

6. Car Racing

Answer 1

1. Volleyball: when a player hits the ball, it may spin because the force was applied at some distance from the center of gravity of the ball.

2. Bodybuilding: the torque is force times lever, different apparatuses have a lot of levers and the bodybuilder applies force to them.

3. Arm wrestling: the lever is the forearm, the force is at the wrist of the armwrestler.

4. Golf: the player rotates the golf club, which is a result of torque

5. Running: our muscles pull bones attached to joints, which implies torque.

6. Car Racing: torque is the key reason of why the wheels spin and the engine power can be transferred to the wheels.