Which variable can significantly affect angular velocity?

The significant factor that affects angular velocity is the applied torque. Torque is the rotational equivalent of linear force and is responsible for causing an object to rotate around an axis. When torque is applied to an object, it can change the object's angular velocity, which is the rate at which the object rotates. The greater the torque applied, the more rapidly the object will spin, assuming that other variables remain constant.

This relationship is defined by Newton's second law for rotation, which states that the angular acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the net torque acting on it and inversely proportional to the moment of inertia of the object. Thus, increasing the applied torque will enhance the angular velocity, making this relationship vital in understanding rotational dynamics.

In contrast, the mass of the object in motion primarily affects its moment of inertia rather than directly influencing angular velocity. While the length of the lever arm can alter the amount of torque produced for a given force, it does not directly impact angular velocity itself. Similarly, temperature may affect material properties or performance but does not have a direct influence on angular velocity in a rotational context.