Journal of Theoretical
and Applied Mechanics

51, 1, pp. 171-181, Warsaw 2013

On the torque as a measure of mechanical interaction in the principles of dynamics

Livija Cveticanin
In most discussions, the Principles of Dynamics are expressed using the force as a measure of mechanical interaction between the bodies. The intention of the paper is to extend the usual discussion on basic theorems, laws and principles in Dynamics of rigid bodies including the torque as another independent measure of mechanical interaction between the bodies. In D'Alambert's principle of Dynamics , beside the forces, the active and reaction torques are also included. The torque is introduced in the Euler-Newton equations for general motion of the rigid body. The General Equation of Dynamics is reformulated by including the virtual work of the torques on the virtual rotation. An additional view to Newton's Laws is also given.
Keywords: Newton's Laws; active and reaction torques; d'Alembert's principle of dynamics