Work Done
Work equals force times distance moved in its direction.
W = F \times d
1What it means
Work is done only when a force moves an object along its direction. It is measured in joules (J); no movement means no work.
2Variables
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| W | Work done (joules, J) |
| F | Force (N) |
| d | Distance moved along the force (m) |
3Worked examples
Example 1 Worked solution
Q. A 20 N force pushes a box 5 m. Find the work done.
- W = F × d = 20 × 5.
✓ W = 100 J
4Where it's used
- ✦Energy needed to lift, push or pull loads.
5Tips & common mistakes
- !Only the force component along the motion counts.
- !If distance is zero, work done is zero — even if you pushed hard.