Work in Physics
In physics, work is defined as the product of the force applied to an object and the distance over which the force is applied. Mathematically, work is represented as:
Work (W) = Force (F) * Distance (d) * cos(θ)
Where θ is the angle between the force and the direction of motion.
Units of Work
The SI unit of work is the joule (J). One joule is equal to the work done by a force of one newton acting over a distance of one meter in the direction of the force. Another common unit of work is the erg.
Calculating Work
To calculate work, you need to know the magnitude of the force applied and the distance over which the force is applied. If the force is not applied in the direction of motion, you need to account for the angle between the force and the direction of motion using the cosine of the angle.
Work-Energy Theorem
The work-energy theorem states that the work done on an object is equal to the change in its kinetic energy. Mathematically, it is represented as:
Work (W) = Change in Kinetic Energy (ΔKE)
Study Guide
- What is the formula for calculating work in physics?
- What are the SI and CGS units of work?
- How is work related to kinetic energy?
- What is the work done by a 50 N force acting over a distance of 10 m at an angle of 30 degrees to the direction of motion?
- A force of 100 N is applied to an object, causing it to move a distance of 5 m. What is the work done if the force is applied at an angle of 60 degrees to the direction of motion?
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