1. What is the Work Equation?

The work equation (J = F × d × cosθ) calculates the energy transferred when a force acts on an object over a distance. Work is measured in Joules (J) in the International System of Units.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the work equation:

Where:

• \( J \) — Work done (Joules)
• \( F \) — Force applied (Newtons)
• \( d \) — Displacement (meters)
• \( \theta \) — Angle between force and displacement vectors (degrees)

Explanation: The equation accounts for both the magnitude of force and its direction relative to the displacement. When force and displacement are in the same direction (θ = 0°), work is maximized.

3. Importance of Work Calculation

Details: Calculating work is fundamental in physics for understanding energy transfer in mechanical systems, from simple machines to complex engineering applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter force in Newtons, distance in meters, and angle in degrees (0-180). All values must be valid (force > 0, distance > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What happens when θ = 90°?
A: When the force is perpendicular to displacement (θ = 90°), cos(90°) = 0, so no work is done despite the applied force.

Q2: Can work be negative?
A: Yes, when 90° < θ ≤ 180°, cosθ is negative, indicating the force opposes the motion (e.g., friction does negative work).

Q3: What's the difference between work and power?
A: Work measures energy transfer, while power measures the rate of energy transfer (work per unit time).

Q4: How does this relate to kinetic energy?
A: The work-energy theorem states that the net work done equals the change in kinetic energy of the object.

Q5: What units are used for work in other systems?
A: In CGS system: ergs (1 J = 10^7 ergs). British system: foot-pounds (1 J ≈ 0.7376 ft-lb).