UCSB Science Line
Sponge Spicules Nerve Cells Galaxy Abalone Shell Nickel Succinate X-ray Lens Lupine
UCSB Science Line
Home
How it Works
Ask a Question
Search Topics
Webcasts
Our Scientists
Science Links
Contact Information
What are different types of Newton meters used for?
Question Date: 2013-03-13
Answer 1:

This is an interesting question. A Newton meter is a device that measures Newtons. All Newton meters are related to the unit of force called a “Newton”.

In the system of units MKS, which means “meters”, “kilograms”, “seconds”, a Newton is the amount needed to accelerate 1 kilogram of mass at the rate of 1 meter per second squared; a device/p>

One second type of Newton meter is used to measure energy. A unit of energy is called a “Joule”. If you apply a force of 1 Newton on an object for a distance of 1 meter, then you are using 1 Joule of energy. One way of measuring the Joules of energy is by using a Newton meter of this type.

A third type of Newton meter is used to measure “torque”. A “torque” is a turning force. If you apply a force of 1 Newton at a distance of 1 meter from the pivot at right angle to the radius, then you are applying a torque of 1 Newton Meter.

The most common design for a Newton meter is a cylinder containing a spring inside. You can attach objects to the spring by a hook. When any object is attached to the spring, it causes a force that causes the spring to expand. You can read how much force is acting on the meter by using a gauge on the cylinder.

Newton

Newton meter



Click Here to return to the search form.

University of California, Santa Barbara Materials Research Laboratory National Science Foundation
This program is co-sponsored by the National Science Foundation and UCSB School-University Partnerships
Copyright © 2020 The Regents of the University of California,
All Rights Reserved.
UCSB Terms of Use