GCSE Physics (AQA)

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Calculating Work Done

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Forces Work done and energy transfer

Calculating Work Done

4:32 Work, Kinetic Energy and Gravitaitonal Potential Energy
Spec 4.1.1.1 4.5.2
Previous Conservation of Momentum Next Momentum as a Vector
  • Work is the transfer of energy caused by a force moving an object a distance.
  • Example: Pushing a box with a force causes it to move, indicating work is done and energy is transferred.
  • Energy transfer involves converting chemical energy from the hand to kinetic energy in the box.
  • The amount of energy transferred depends on the force applied and the distance moved.
  • Work done is calculated using the equation: Work = Force x Distance (in the direction of the force).
  • Work done equals the amount of energy transferred.
  • Distances are measured in the same or opposite direction to the force.
  • Equation in symbol form: W = F x S, where W is work done, F is force, and S is distance.
  • In exams, work describes various energy transfers, but calculations are for simple cases of measurable distance movement.
  • Units: Force in Newtons, Distance in meters, Work in Joules.
  • One Joule (J) is the work done when a one Newton force moves an object by one meter.
  • Example: Applying a one Newton force to move a box one meter results in one Joule of work.
  • Work measures the amount of energy transferred, not a type of energy itself.
  • Example calculation: A 5 Newton force pushing a box 12 meters results in 60 Joules of work.
  • Calculation steps: Write down key information, check units, use the formula (Work = Force x Distance), and calculate the result.

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