How to Calculate Work
What is Work?
In physics, work (W) is the energy transferred when a force moves an object through a distance: W = F × d × cos(θ) where θ is the angle between force and displacement. Work is measured in joules. Positive work adds energy; negative work removes it.
Step-by-Step Guide
- 1W = F × d (when force is parallel to displacement)
- 2W = F × d × cos(θ) (when force is at angle θ)
- 3Work-energy theorem: W_net = ΔKE = ½mv² − ½mv₀²
- 4Power = Work / Time = W/t (watts = J/s)
Worked Examples
Input
Push 100N force, move 5m horizontally
Result
W = 100 × 5 = 500 J
Force parallel to motion
Input
Pull at 30°, force 200N, displacement 10m
Result
W = 200 × 10 × cos30° = 1,732 J
cos(30°) = 0.866
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