Work Formula:
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The work formula calculates the amount of work done when a force is applied to move an object over a distance at a specific angle. Work is measured in joules (J) in the International System of Units.
The calculator uses the work formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula accounts for the component of force that acts in the direction of displacement. When the force is applied at an angle, only the component parallel to the displacement does work.
Details: Calculating work is fundamental in physics and engineering to determine energy transfer, mechanical efficiency, and power requirements in various systems and applications.
Tips: Enter force in newtons, distance in meters, and angle in degrees. All values must be valid (force > 0, distance > 0, angle between 0-180 degrees).
Q1: What happens when the angle is 90 degrees?
A: When θ = 90°, cos(90°) = 0, so no work is done as the force is perpendicular to the displacement.
Q2: What is the difference between work and energy?
A: Work is the process of transferring energy, while energy is the capacity to do work. Both are measured in joules.
Q3: Can work be negative?
A: Yes, when the angle is between 90° and 270°, cos(θ) is negative, indicating work is done against the force.
Q4: What are typical work values in everyday situations?
A: Everyday work values range from a few joules (lifting small objects) to thousands of joules (moving furniture or mechanical work).
Q5: How does this relate to power?
A: Power is the rate at which work is done (P = W/t). Work calculation is the first step in determining power requirements.