What is the torque effect in an aircraft primarily due to?

The torque effect in an aircraft primarily results from the rotational force generated by the propeller which is a consequence of Newton's Third Law of Motion – for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. As the propeller spins, it creates a force that applies a torque to the aircraft's airframe. This torque effect generally causes the aircraft to roll in the opposite direction of the propeller's rotation.

In multi-engine aircraft, the torque effects can become more pronounced, especially in the case of a single engine failure. Pilots need to compensate for this torque by using ailerons to maintain coordinated flight, particularly during takeoff and climb phases when engine power is at its highest.

Other factors, such as weight distribution, wing shape, and engine power, while they can influence an aircraft’s handling and stability, do not directly account for the torque effect as produced by propeller rotation.