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.