This free online Work and Power Calculator helps you calculate the amount of work done when a force is applied over a distance, and the power generated when work is done over time. You can also include the angle between force and displacement, and see results in Joules, kilojoules, Calories, kilowatt-hours, Watts, kilowatts, and horsepower.
Work = Force × Distance × cos(θ). Power = Work ÷ Time. Results shown in SI units with equivalents.
Results
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Work and Power Calculator Formulas in Physics
Below are the key formulas used in this calculator:
- Work (W): \( W = F \times d \times \cos(\theta) \)
- Power (P): \( P = \frac{W}{t} \)
- Force (F): \( F = m \times a \)
- 1 Joule (J): \( 1 \, J = 1 \, N \times 1 \, m \)
- 1 Watt (W): \( 1 \, W = 1 \, \frac{J}{s} \)
Energy Conversion Formulas
- \( 1 \, kJ = 1000 \, J \)
- \( 1 \, calorie \approx 4.184 \, J \)
- \( 1 \, kcal \,(food \, Calorie) \approx 4184 \, J \)
- \( 1 \, kWh = 3.6 \times 10^6 \, J \)
Power Conversion Formulas
- \( 1 \, kW = 1000 \, W \)
- \( 1 \, horsepower \,(hp) \approx 745.7 \, W \)
How to Use the Work and Power Calculator
- Enter the force applied in newtons or kilonewtons.
- Enter the distance moved in meters or centimetres.
- (Optional) Enter the time taken to calculate power.
- (Optional) Enter the angle θ to account for inclined or angled forces.
- Click Calculate to see results and a step-by-step breakdown.
Work and Power Calculation Example (Step-by-Step)
Suppose a force of 100 N is applied over a distance of 5 m at an angle of 0°, in 10 seconds:
- Work = \( 100 \times 5 \times \cos(0^\circ) = 500 \, J \)
- Power = \( \tfrac{500}{10} = 50 \, W \)
- Converted Units: \( 500 \, J = 0.5 \, kJ \approx 0.12 \, kcal \approx 0.00014 \, kWh \)
Work and Power Calculator – Frequently Asked Questions
What is work in physics (Work and Power Formula)?
In physics, work is the energy transferred when a force moves an object over a distance in the direction of the force: \\( W = F \times d \times \cos(\theta) \\).
What is power in physics (Work and Power Calculator use)?
Power is the rate at which work is done: \\( P = \\tfrac{W}{t} \\). It is measured in Watts (W).
Why include the angle θ in Work and Power calculations?
When force is applied at an angle, only the component in the direction of motion contributes to work. That’s why \\( \cos(\theta) \\) is included.
Can work be negative in physics calculations?
Yes, if the force is opposite to displacement (θ > 90°), the work is negative, meaning energy is taken from the system.