Reaktionsdrehmoment

Reaktionsdrehmoment, also known as reaction torque, is a fundamental concept in physics, particularly in the study of rotational motion. It describes the torque that opposes a torque applied to a system. In essence, according to Newton's third law of motion, for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. When an object exerts a torque on another object, the second object exerts an equal and opposite torque back on the first. This is the reaction torque.

This principle is observable in many everyday situations. For example, when you turn a screwdriver to tighten a screw, you apply a torque to the screwdriver handle. The screw, in turn, exerts a reaction torque on the screwdriver and, consequently, on your hand, making it feel like you are pushing against something. Similarly, when a rocket engine expels hot gas in one direction, the expulsion generates a reaction torque that propels the rocket in the opposite direction. The same principle applies to the spinning of a propeller on an airplane or a helicopter rotor. The rotating blades push air in one direction, and the air pushes back on the blades with a reaction torque, causing the aircraft to move forward or lift off. Understanding reaction torque is crucial in designing and analyzing systems involving rotating machinery, vehicles, and any application where rotational forces are involved.