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  • Torque Calculation: Calculating Torque with a Steel Ball - Physics Problem
    Here's how to calculate the torque:

    1. Understand Torque

    Torque is a twisting force that causes rotation. It's calculated as:

    * Torque (τ) = Force (F) × Distance (r) × sin(θ)

    * Force (F): The force applied. In this case, it's the weight of the steel ball.

    * Distance (r): The distance from the axis of rotation (the shoulder) to the point where the force is applied (the ball).

    * θ: The angle between the force vector and the lever arm (the distance).

    2. Calculate the Force

    * Weight (F) = Mass (m) × Acceleration due to gravity (g)

    * F = (4.0 kg) × (9.8 m/s²) = 39.2 N

    3. Calculate the Distance (r)

    * r = 70 cm = 0.7 m (convert centimeters to meters)

    4. Determine the Angle (θ)

    * The problem states the arm is 30 degrees *below* horizontal. This means the angle between the force of gravity (acting downward) and the arm is 30 degrees.

    5. Calculate the Torque

    * τ = (39.2 N) × (0.7 m) × sin(30°)

    * τ ≈ 13.72 Nm

    Therefore, the magnitude of the torque about the man's shoulder is approximately 13.72 Nm.

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