Work Calculator
Compute mechanical work done by a constant force over a displacement
Inputs
Formula: W = F · d · cos(θ). Work is positive when the force component aligns with the displacement.
0° = same direction, 90° = perpendicular (no work done).
Work Done:
Notes
- 1 Joule = 1 N·m. To convert to ft·lbf, the calculator shows the value automatically.
- If the angle exceeds 90°, work becomes negative (force opposes motion).
- Only the component of force parallel to displacement contributes to work.
How mechanical work is calculated
Formula
W = Fd cos θ
Only the component of force parallel to displacement does mechanical work on an object.
Worked example
A 10 N force moving an object 3 m in the same direction does 30 J of work.
Common mistake
Include the angle between force and displacement; a perpendicular force does zero work.