In general, the vector sum of the external torques equals $\dfrac{\mathrm{d}\mathbf{L}}{\mathrm{d}t}$$\mathrm{d}\mathbf{L}/\mathrm{d}t$, the rate of change of the angular momentum vector. If your object is starting at rest, the instantaneous axis of rotation wouldwill be in the direction of $\dfrac{\mathrm{d}\mathbf{L}}{\mathrm{d}t}$$\mathrm{d}\mathbf{L}/\mathrm{d}t$. OtherwiseOtherwise, it wouldwill be in the direction of $\mathbf{L}$, which may be changing with time. Note Note: a torque relative to the centrecenter of mass is given by $\mathbf{R} \times \mathbf{F}$$\mathbf{r}\times \mathbf{F}$ (vector product).
Use MathJax in body in order to improve readability; fixed typo in grammar.
Vincent Thacker
- 12.9k
- 14
- 41
- 52