[Rev]

I think your physics proffessor is correct. Torque is measured in Lbs./ft. This accounts for force (lbs.) and distance (ft). The RPM accounts for time (revolutions per minute).

The torque curves that you mentioned are largely determined by the cam shaft duration, lift, lobe separation etc. For any of those different torque curves you mentioned there will be a corresponding HP figure for any given RPM. Use that formula HP=(torque X RPM)/5252 and that will be the HP for that spot on the torque curve.

Rev