Calculation of Work

1. Work is done when a force is applied to an object over a certain distance.

2. To calculate the work done when performing a task, determine the amount of force applied to the object and the distance over which the force is applied.

3. When calculating work, distance is generally recorded in units of meters (m).

4. When calculating work, force is generally recorded in units of Newtons (N).

5. The amount of work done when completing a task is generally reported in units of joules (J). A joule is equal to a Newton-meter.

6. Use the following formula to determine work

Work = Force x distance

Work = Force multiplied by distance

7. If necessary, review the example below to help you in your calculations:

Work = Force x distance

Force = 2.0 N

Distance = 0.5 m

Work = 2.0 N x 0.5 m

Work = 1.0 J