What is the work done by a force? How is it calculated?

Prepare for the Year 10 Force and Motion Test. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions with clear hints and explanations to ensure success. Equip yourself for excellence on your exam!

Multiple Choice

What is the work done by a force? How is it calculated?

Explanation:
Work is the energy transferred to an object by a force as it moves. For a constant force acting as the object moves along a straight path, only the part of the force that acts in the direction of the movement does work. That part has magnitude F cos θ, where θ is the angle between the force and the displacement direction, so the work is W = F d cos θ. If the force points directly along the motion (θ = 0), you get W = Fd. If the force is perpendicular to the motion (θ = 90°), no work is done (W = 0). If the force opposes the motion (θ > 90°), the work is negative, meaning energy is taken from the object.

Work is the energy transferred to an object by a force as it moves. For a constant force acting as the object moves along a straight path, only the part of the force that acts in the direction of the movement does work. That part has magnitude F cos θ, where θ is the angle between the force and the displacement direction, so the work is W = F d cos θ. If the force points directly along the motion (θ = 0), you get W = Fd. If the force is perpendicular to the motion (θ = 90°), no work is done (W = 0). If the force opposes the motion (θ > 90°), the work is negative, meaning energy is taken from the object.

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