Work Calculator

Calculating Energy Transferred

In physics, 'work' is the energy transferred to or from an object when a force is applied to it, causing it to move. This calculator finds the work done (in Joules) by multiplying the applied force (in Newtons) by the distance the object was moved (in meters).

The Work Formula Explained

The formula for work is: W = F × d

• W (Work): The energy transferred, measured in Joules (J).
• F (Force): The force applied in the direction of motion, measured in Newtons (N).
• d (Displacement): The distance the object moves, measured in meters (m).

How to Use the Calculator

1. Force (N): Enter the amount of force applied in Newtons.
2. Displacement (m): Enter the distance the object moved in meters.
3. Calculate: The tool will display the total work done in Joules.

Real-World Example

You push a box with a constant force of 30 Newtons across a floor for a distance of 5 meters.

• Force (F): 30 N
• Displacement (d): 5 m
• Calculation: Work = 30 N * 5 m = 150 J
• You have done 150 Joules of work on the box.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What if the force is not in the same direction as the movement? The formula W = F × d assumes the force is applied parallel to the direction of movement. If the force is applied at an angle (θ), the formula becomes W = F × d × cos(θ). This calculator uses the simplified parallel case.
• Is work done if the object doesn't move? No. In physics, if there is no displacement (d=0), no work is done, no matter how much force you apply. Pushing against a solid wall does zero work on the wall.
• How does work relate to power? Power is the rate at which work is done (Power = Work / Time). Our Power Calculator can calculate this for you.