Lets say I have a block in the middle of the screen. I apply a force F a distance D from the center of the block. This will produce a torque T from the equation T = F dot D, correct? Now I have the Torque. Now, how do I know how many degrees to rotate the block based on the torque? Thanks in advance!

You''ve got the equation for torque wrong. Torque is the cross product of F and R, where F is the force vector and R is a vector from the block''s centre of mass to the point where the force is applied.

As for what to do with the torque you''ve calculated: the answers are waiting on Google. Look for information on angular momentum, angular velocity, torque, angular acceleration, and moments of inertia.

If your torque is only in two-dimensions you can save yourself a lot of effort by knowing that r is the perpendicular distance only and so if F points in the y direction then torque is the distance along the x-axis between the line of action of F and the point around which you''re measuring force. Uhm... that is: t = F*d (and points in the z direction) sign is: (+x,+y) = +z, (+x,-y) = -z, (-x,+y) = -z, (-x,-y) = +z and if F is in the y direction then all the signs are reversed.

-- Exitus Acta Probat --

Yeah, sorry bout that, my mistake. It was a brain fart on cross product.

It is in 3 dimensions.

I have been looking and trying to figure it out on my own also, but have had no luck until today. I think i figured it out, and I will test it. If it doesn''t work, I''ll be back.