Torque is the rotational equivalent of linear force. It measures how effectively a force causes an object to rotate around an axis or pivot point. Mathematically, torque is defined as the cross product of the position vector and the force vector. The magnitude of torque equals the force multiplied by the perpendicular distance from the pivot to the line of action of the force, multiplied by the sine of the angle between the force and the lever arm.
The magnitude of torque depends on three key factors. First, the force magnitude: a larger force produces greater torque. Second, the distance from the pivot point, also called the lever arm: a longer lever arm increases torque. Third, the angle at which the force is applied: maximum torque occurs when force is perpendicular to the lever arm, at 90 degrees. When force is applied at an angle, only the perpendicular component contributes to torque. When force is parallel to the lever arm, at 0 degrees, no torque is produced.