Work Equation:
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The work equation calculates the amount of work done when a force acts on an object and causes displacement. It takes into account both the magnitude of the force and the angle between the force and displacement vectors.
The calculator uses the work equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation calculates the scalar product of force and displacement, taking into account the directional component through the cosine of the angle between them.
Details: Work calculation is fundamental in physics and engineering for determining energy transfer, mechanical advantage, and efficiency of systems. It's essential for understanding how forces produce motion and energy transformations.
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 is the unit of work?
A: The SI unit of work is the Joule (J), which is equivalent to 1 Newton-meter.
Q2: What does a negative work value mean?
A: Negative work indicates that the force is acting in the opposite direction to the displacement, meaning the force is resisting the motion.
Q3: When is work zero?
A: Work is zero when either no force is applied, no displacement occurs, or when the force is perpendicular to the displacement (θ = 90°).
Q4: How does angle affect work?
A: Work is maximum when force and displacement are parallel (θ = 0°), decreases as the angle increases, and becomes zero when they are perpendicular (θ = 90°).
Q5: Can this equation be used for variable forces?
A: No, this equation is for constant forces. For variable forces, integration is required to calculate work.