Work Formula:
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In physics, work is defined as the product of force and displacement in the direction of the force. It represents the energy transferred when a force acts on an object and causes it to move.
The calculator uses the work formula:
Where:
Explanation: The cosine component accounts for the directional relationship between the applied force and the direction of motion.
Details: Calculating work is fundamental in physics for understanding energy transfer, mechanical systems, and conservation of energy principles.
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 θ = 90°?
A: When the angle is 90°, cos(90°) = 0, so no work is done as the force is perpendicular to the displacement.
Q2: What are the units of work?
A: Work is measured in Joules (J), where 1 J = 1 N·m (Newton-meter).
Q3: Can work be negative?
A: Yes, work can be negative when the force component opposes the direction of motion (θ > 90°).
Q4: What's the difference between work and energy?
A: Work is the process of transferring energy, while energy is the capacity to do work. They share the same units.
Q5: When is maximum work done?
A: Maximum work occurs when the force is parallel to the displacement (θ = 0°), where cos(0°) = 1.