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Torque is force times lever arm. Which SI unit is correct for torque?

Newton meters (N·m), a product, not newtons per meter.

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  1. Newton meters (N·m) ✔
  2. Newtons per meter (N/m)
  3. Newtons per square meter (Pa)

Why: Torque multiplies a force by a distance, so its unit is the newton times the meter. Newtons per meter is a spring stiffness, a very different thing.

Huh, didn't know that: Pushing a door far from its hinges is easier because a longer lever arm gives more torque for the same push.

The dad joke
I tried to loosen a stuck bolt with a short wrench. I just didn't have the torque of experience.
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References

Answer: Newton meters (N·m). Torque multiplies a force by a distance, so its unit is the newton times the meter. Newtons per meter is a spring stiffness, a very different thing.

  1. OpenStax University Physics Volume 1: 10.6 Torque openstax.org/books/university-physics-volume-1/pages/10-6-torque
    The SI unit of torque is newtons times meters
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. Gear notes, CORC 3303, Brooklyn College CUNY www.sci.brooklyn.cuny.edu/~kammet/gear_notes.pdf
    Do NOT read this as newtons per meter, which would indicate division
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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