Work Formula:
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Definition: This calculator computes the work done when a force is applied to move an object over a distance at an angle.
Purpose: It helps physics students and engineers calculate mechanical work in various applications.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: Only the component of force in the direction of displacement does work. The cosine term accounts for angular differences.
Details: Work calculations are fundamental in physics, mechanical engineering, and energy transfer analysis.
Tips: Enter the force magnitude, displacement distance, and angle between them. Angle of 0° means force and displacement are parallel.
Q1: What does negative work mean?
A: Negative work occurs when the force component opposes displacement (90° < θ ≤ 180°).
Q2: What's the maximum work possible?
A: Maximum work occurs at θ = 0° (cos(0°) = 1), when force and displacement are parallel.
Q3: When is work zero?
A: Work is zero when θ = 90° (cos(90°) = 0), meaning force is perpendicular to displacement.
Q4: How does angle affect work?
A: As angle increases from 0° to 90°, work decreases from maximum to zero.
Q5: What are typical units for each variable?
A: Force in Newtons (N), distance in meters (m), angle in degrees (°), work in Joules (J).