Work Calculator Formula
Understand the math behind the work calculator. Each variable explained with a worked example.
Formulas Used
Work Done
work = force * distance * cos(angle_rad)Variables
| Variable | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|
force | Force(N) | 50 |
distance | Distance(m) | 10 |
angle | Angle from Direction of Motion(degrees) | 0 |
angle_rad | Derived value= angle * pi / 180 | calculated |
How It Works
Work Done by a Force
Work is the energy transferred when a force moves an object through a displacement.
Formula
W = F * d * cos(theta)
When the force is parallel to motion (theta = 0), all of the force contributes to work. At 90 degrees, no work is done.
Worked Example
A 50 N force pushes a box 10 meters along the floor (angle = 0 degrees).
force = 50distance = 10angle = 0
- 01W = F * d * cos(theta)
- 02W = 50 * 10 * cos(0°)
- 03W = 50 * 10 * 1
- 04W = 500 J
Ready to run the numbers?
Open Work Calculator