Physics

Torque is the rotational analogue of force, so it shares force's fundamental units but adds a distance dimension for the lever arm. Since a newton is $\text{kg·m·s}^{-2}$, multiplying by meters (the distance from the pivot) gives you the complete picture of what torque "costs" in base units. Break down the newton first, then extend it by the rotational distance.

Torque is the rotational analogue of force, so it shares force's fundamental units but adds a distance dimension for the lever arm. Since a newton is $\text{kg·m·s}^{-2}$, multiplying by meters (the distance from the pivot) gives you the complete picture of what torque "costs" in base units. Break down the newton first, then extend it by the rotational distance.