PDF Tools Calculators Contact Log In
Result
--
Enter values to calculate.
Summary
--
Waiting for input
Detail
--
Waiting for input

Calculate the work done by a force acting over a distance, at any angle.

How It Works

How Work Calculator (Physics) Works

Work equals force times distance times the cosine of the angle between the force's direction and the direction of motion — when the force pushes exactly along the direction of travel (0°), all of it contributes; at 90° (perpendicular), it contributes none at all.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the angle matter?
Only the portion of a force that acts along the direction of motion actually does work — pushing straight down on a cart you're also pulling forward doesn't help move it forward, which is exactly what the cosine term accounts for.