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How much torque does one horsepower equal to per second?

  1. 250 foot pounds

  2. 550 foot pounds

  3. 750 foot pounds

  4. 1000 foot pounds

The correct answer is: 550 foot pounds

One horsepower is defined as the amount of work done when a force of 550 foot-pounds is applied over the course of one second. This means that if an engine or motor is providing one horsepower, it can exert a torque of 550 foot-pounds per second. This is a standard conversion in mechanical engineering, indicating that horsepower measures both the power output and the ability to perform work in terms of torque. Understanding this conversion is essential for general contractors when assessing the power requirements for machinery or tools they might use on a job site. Knowing the relationship between horsepower and torque helps in selecting the right equipment for specific tasks, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness in construction projects.