Work Calculator
Calculate work step by step: W = F × d × cos θ.
In short
Formula: W = F × d × cos θ.
Work
500 J
- Kilojoules
- 0.5 kJ
- Watt-hours
- 0.1389 Wh
What this calculator does
Calculate work step by step: W = F × d × cos θ. Worked example, questions and limitations included.
Use it to turn Force, Distance moved, Angle between force and motion into a checked result you can compare, copy, or rerun with different assumptions.
The page shows the formula, a numeric worked example, and the assumptions that affect this mechanical calculation.
Inputs and what they mean
- Force
- — number value.
- Distance moved
- — number value.
- Angle between force and motion
- — number value.
How to use it
- Enter each value in the unit shown next to the box (use the unit converter first if your numbers are in other units).
- Check the breakdown to see every intermediate step.
- Read the limitations before relying on the result.
Formula
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.
Worked example
Pushing a cart 10 m with 50 N
- cos 0° = 1.
- W = 50 × 10 × 1 = 500 J.
Reading the result
The headline figure is the main answer. Any breakdown underneath shows the parts that make it up, so you can check the working and see what changes when you adjust an input.
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.
Common questions
Why can work be negative?
When the force opposes motion, such as friction or braking, it removes energy, so work is negative. Check the formula, example, and limitations on this page before using the result for a real mechanical decision.
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. Check the formula, example, and limitations on this page before using the result for a real mechanical decision.
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.
Related tools
Calculate mechanical power step by step: P = W ÷ t, or P = F × v.