Work & Power Calculator
Calculate work done, power output, force, distance, or time using physics formulas. W = F × d and P = W / t.
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How to use this calculator
W = work (J), F = force (N), d = distance (m), θ = angle between force and displacement, P = power (W), t = time (s).
- 1
Enter the applied force in Newtons and the displacement in metres.
- 2
If the force is not parallel to the motion (e.g., pulling a sled at an angle), enter the angle between force and direction of motion.
- 3
Enter the time for which the force is applied to get power output.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between work and energy?
Work is the process of transferring energy by applying a force over a distance. Energy is a stored quantity; work is how energy is transferred. When you do work on an object, you change its energy — kinetic, potential, thermal, etc.
Why does angle matter in the work formula?
Only the component of force in the direction of motion does work. If you push a box horizontally at 100 N but at 30° above horizontal, only 100 × cos(30°) ≈ 86.6 N contributes to moving the box. The vertical component lifts slightly but the box doesn't move vertically.
What is the difference between watts and joules?
Joules measure energy or work (a fixed amount). Watts measure power, which is the rate of doing work: 1 W = 1 J/s. A 60 W light bulb uses 60 joules of energy every second.
Work & Power Calculator — Force, Distance & Time
Work in physics vs everyday language
In physics, work requires force AND displacement in the direction of force. Holding a heavy box stationary requires effort but does zero work (no displacement). Carrying a box horizontally also does no work on the box (force is vertical, motion is horizontal) — though you do work against friction.
Power and efficiency
Power tells you how quickly work is done. A 100 W motor can do the same work as a 50 W motor, but in half the time. Efficiency = useful work out / total energy in × 100%. A perfect machine is 100% efficient; real machines lose energy to friction, heat, and sound.
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Results are estimates for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional financial, medical, legal, or technical advice. Read full disclaimer →