To understand work in physics, we need to know how force and movement relate to each other.
What is Work?
- Work (W) is when you use a force (F) to move something a certain distance (d).
- The formula to calculate work is:
W=F×dcos(θ)
Here, θ is the angle between the force and the direction you are moving.
Everyday Examples
-
Pushing a Box:
- Imagine you push a box with a force of 10 N (Newtons) over a distance of 2 m (meters).
- The work done is:
W=10N×2m=20J
(Joules are a unit of work.)
-
Lifting an Object:
- If you lift a 5 kg backpack up 1.5 m (meters) against gravity, you are also doing work.
- To find that work:
W=F×d=mg×d=5kg×9.8m/s2×1.5m=73.5J
Understanding work is important because it helps us see how energy is used in our everyday activities!