What Is Work In Physics?

In standard wording, work is something that needs to be done. But science somehow elaborates the meaning of work. Work is defined as the amount of force required to move an object over a distance. No movement means no work in science.

Formula: Work (W) = Force (F) × Distance (d)

Note: This equation is known as the work-energy principle and explains how much energy is used to move an object.

• W = work measured in joules.
• F = force measured in Newtons.
• d = distance measured in meters.

How to Use the Work-Energy Calculator

MathCalc has physics calculators that are designed for everyone, from middle school students to professional field engineers. You can easily calculate work, potential energy, and kinetic energy by using this free Work Energy Calculator.

Step 1

You can calculate different types of potential energy and kinetic energy by using this calculator. Select what you want to calculate from the drop-down menu on the calculator.

Step 2

After selecting what you want to calculate, punch in the input values in the relevant sections. You can leave the sections of unknown values, and the Work Energy Calculator will determine the values for you.

Step 3

After adding all the relevant values, press the “calculate” button. It will take only a few seconds, and you will get your results instantly.

How the Work–Energy Calculator Works?

This calculator is specifically designed to calculate values of work or energy. It uses a simple formula of physics and can calculate values of work done, force applied, and distance moved. You need to enter two values out of three, and our Work Energy Calculator will do the math for you.

Note: This calculator uses a work formula and rearranges it to find the missing value.

Let’s Understand It with a Real-Time Example

Choose to calculate work

Given:

• F = 60 N
• Distance = 1.2 m

Formula: Work = Force × Distance

Solution: W = 60 × 1.2 = 72 J

Result: You worked 72 joules to lift your backpack at a height of 1.2 meters.

Choose to calculate kinetic energy

Given:

• Mass = 6 kg
• Velocity = 2 m/s
• Work = 72 J

Formula: KE = ½mv²

Solution: KE = ½ × 6 × (2)² = 12 J

Result: Kinetic Energy = 12 J

Choose to calculate Gravitational Potential Energy

Given:

• Mass = 6 kg
• g = 9.81 m/s²
• h = 1.2 m

Formula: PE = mgh

Solution: PE = 6 × 9.81 × 1.2 = 70.632 J

Result: Gravitational PE = 70.632 J

Choose to calculate Elastic Potential Energy

Given:

• k = 200 N/m
• x = 0.15 m

Formula: PE = ½kx²

Solution: PE = ½ × 200 × (0.15)² = 2.25 J

Result: Elastic PE = 2.25 J

Choose to calculate the Work Energy Theorem

Formula: Wnet = ΔKE + ΔPEgravity + ΔPEelastic

Solution: Wnet = 12 + 70.56 + 2.25 = 84.81 J

Result: Work-Energy Theorem Result = 84.81 J

Choose to calculate power

Given:

• Mass = 6 kg
• Time = 2 s
• Force = 60 N
• Height = 1.2 m

Formula: P = W / t

Solution: W = 60 × 1.2 = 72 J → P = 72 / 2 = 36 W

Result: Power = 36 W

FAQs – Work-Energy Calculator

What values do I need to use the calculator?

You can easily calculate the missing value if you have any two of the values from the force, distance and work.

What units should be used to calculate values on this calculator?

There is only one rule to get the correct answer using this work energy calculator, and that is to use values measured in proper units.

• Work in joules (J)
• Force in Newton (N)
• Distance in meters (m)

Can I calculate the work-energy theorem using this calculator?

Yes, you can easily calculate the work-energy theorem, power, elastic potential, and kinetic energy, as well as the work. You need to select the right option from the drop-down menu at the top of the calculator.

Why Use Our Work-Energy Calculator?

• Easy to use.
• Fast and free.
• Instant and online.
• Great for learning, labs, or homework.
• Works on any device.

Improve Your Grades in Physics — Use MathCalc Now!

Our Work Energy Calculator is a perfect study companion for students who want quick and reliable answers while practicing physics problems.