1. What is Torque?

Definition: Torque is a measure of rotational force - how much twisting force is being applied.

Example: When you use a wrench to tighten a bolt, the force you apply multiplied by the length of the wrench is torque.

Measurement: Typically measured in pound-feet (lb-ft) or Newton-meters (Nm).

2. What is Horsepower?

Definition: Horsepower measures how fast work is being done - it's the rate at which torque is applied.

Example: Two engines might produce the same torque, but the one that can maintain that torque at higher RPMs will have more horsepower.

Measurement: Typically measured in horsepower (hp) or kilowatts (kW).

3. Key Differences

• Torque determines initial acceleration and pulling power
• Horsepower determines top speed and how long you can maintain acceleration
• At 5,252 RPM, horsepower and torque are always equal

4. Practical Applications

Towing/Heavy Duty: High torque at low RPM is important for pulling heavy loads

Racing/High Speed: High horsepower at high RPM is important for maximum speed

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Which is more important, torque or horsepower?
A: It depends on the application. Torque is more important for low-speed power, while horsepower matters more for high-speed performance.

Q2: Why do diesel engines have more torque?
A: Diesel engines are built with longer strokes, which creates more leverage and thus more torque.

Q3: Can you have high horsepower with low torque?
A: Yes, if an engine can spin very fast (high RPM) even with modest torque, it can produce high horsepower.

Q4: What's the 5252 constant in the formula?
A: This comes from the conversion between foot-pounds per minute to horsepower (1 hp = 33,000 ft-lb/min).

Q5: Why do electric cars have instant torque?
A: Electric motors deliver maximum torque immediately at 0 RPM, unlike internal combustion engines.