# Work Calculator

> Calculate work step by step: W = F × d × cos θ.

Page: https://freecalculator.tech/tools/work-calculator
Last reviewed: 2026-11-03

## Formula

W = F × d × cos θ.

- θ is the angle between the force and the direction of motion.
- At 90° no work is done; above 90° work is negative.
- 1 J = 1 N·m; 3,600 J = 1 Wh.
- W = F × d × cos θ.
- Inputs used: Force, Distance moved, Angle between force and motion.

## Inputs

- Force
- Distance moved
- Angle between force and motion

## Worked example: Pushing a cart 10 m with 50 N

Force in line with motion.
1. cos 0° = 1.
2. W = 50 × 10 × 1 = 500 J.

## Common questions

### Why can work be negative?

When the force opposes motion, such as friction or braking, it removes energy, so work is negative.

### How is work related to power?

Power is work divided by time. The mechanical power calculator does that step.

### Does carrying something level count as work?

In physics, no — the lifting force is at 90° to horizontal motion, so it does no work.

### How do I use the Work Calculator?

Enter the required values for Force, Distance moved, Angle between force and motion. The calculator applies the formula on this page and shows the main result with any supporting breakdown so you can check the arithmetic.

### What formula does the Work Calculator use?

W = F × d × cos θ. The visible formula section above lists the calculation path and the edge cases the page handles, so the result can be checked without relying on the form alone.

### Can the Work Calculator be used for exact decisions?

Use it as a calculation aid, not as a substitute for checking the underlying rule, contract, policy, or professional advice that applies to your situation. When a result depends on local rules, personal details, prices, or dates, enter those values yourself and confirm them before acting.

## Limitations and assumptions

- Constant force.
- Straight-line motion.
- Energy losses not included.
- Results are estimates for planning and learning. Real designs, installations and bids must be checked by a qualified, licensed professional against the codes that apply where you work.
- The result depends on the values you enter for this work calculator; it does not supply missing rates, rules, prices, dates, or assumptions for you.

## Sources

- OpenStax (Rice University) — https://openstax.org/details/books/university-physics-volume-1

## Cite this page

- APA: Free Calculator. (2026, November 3). Work Calculator. https://freecalculator.tech/tools/work-calculator
- MLA: "Work Calculator." Free Calculator, 3 Nov. 2026, https://freecalculator.tech/tools/work-calculator.
- Link: Work Calculator — Free Calculator, https://freecalculator.tech/tools/work-calculator