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Work Formula

W = F × d × cos(θ)

📖 What is Work in Physics?

In physics, work is done when a force causes an object to move in the direction of the force. Work is measured in Joules (J). If the force and displacement are in the same direction, θ = 0° and cos(0°) = 1, so W = Fd.

W = F × d × cos(θ)

🔤 What Each Variable Means

W
Work (Joules, J)Energy transferred by the force
F
Force (Newtons, N)The magnitude of the applied force
d
Displacement (metres, m)Distance the object moves in the direction of force
θ
Angle between force and displacementWhen force is parallel to motion, θ = 0 and cos(θ) = 1

📝 Step-by-Step Example

A force of 50 N pushes a box horizontally over 10 m. What is the work done?

1
Force is parallel to motion, so θ = 0°cos(0°) = 1
2
Write the formulaW = F × d × cos(θ)
3
Substitute valuesW = 50 × 10 × 1
✓
Answer: W = 500 J

🧮 Interactive Calculator

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🔗 Related

🎯 Quick Fact

If you push against a wall and it doesn't move, you do zero work — no matter how hard you push!