Biomechanics - Torques & Moments of Force

A collection of vocabulary flashcards based on key concepts from the biomechanics lecture focusing on torques and moments of force.

Torque

The turning effect produced by a force, also known as a moment of force.

Centric Force

An external force that is directed through the center of mass, resulting in translation only.

Eccentric Force

An external force not directed through the center of mass, resulting in both rotation and translation.

Force Couple

A pair of equal in size, opposite in direction, and noncolinear eccentric forces that result in rotation only.

Moment Arm

The perpendicular distance between the line of action of a force and a specified axis of rotation.

Static Equilibrium

Conditions where external forces and torques sum to zero; ΣF = 0 and ΣT = 0.

Net Torque/Moment

Calculated by summing torques/moments around the same axis, considering both clockwise and counterclockwise effects.

Mechanical Advantage

The ratio of the moment arm of force to the moment arm of resistance; indicates how much a lever amplifies force.

Centre of Gravity (CoG)

The point at which the entire mass or weight of the body may be concentrated; changes with limb position.

Anatomical Levers

Lever systems within the body involving agonist/antagonist pairs that can operate as first, second, or third class levers.