Work and Energy Fundamentals
This introductory page covers the basic concepts of work and energy in physics.
Work is defined as force applied over a distance, with the formula L = F · s · cos α, where L is work, F is force, s is displacement, and α is the angle between force and displacement.
Definition: Work (L) = Force (F) × Displacement (s) × cos(angle)
The unit of work is the joule (J), which equals 1 newton-meter (N·m).
Key points about work:
• Work is zero if there is no displacement, even if force is applied
• Maximum work occurs when force is parallel to displacement (cos 0° = 1)
• No work is done when force is perpendicular to displacement (cos 90° = 0)
• Negative work occurs when force opposes displacement (cos 180° = -1)
Example: Pushing against a wall applies force but does no work since there is no displacement.
The page also introduces the concept of energy as the capacity to do work, setting up further exploration of kinetic and potential energy in subsequent sections.