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Work Calculator

Use this work calculator in physics to calculate work done, force, or displacement with the formula W = Fdcosθ. This page also works as a work done calculator, work formula calculator, and work calculator with angle.

Physics Work Calculator: W = Fdcosθ

Solve for work, force, or displacement when a constant force acts through a distance at an angle.

Calculator Inputs

Use “.” as the decimal separator.

Results

W = Fdcosθ
Force [F]
—
Displacement [d]
—
Angle [θ]
—
cosθ
—
Work [W]
—
Meaning of the result

Enter values and click Calculate to solve the work equation.

Force, Displacement and Angle Diagram

This diagram shows the displacement direction and the applied force angle used in the formula W = Fdcosθ.

Displacement d Force F θ

Work Formula in Physics

W = Fdcosθ
  • W = work done
  • F = magnitude of force
  • d = displacement
  • θ = angle between force and displacement

This is the same formula users search as w=fdcosθ, fdcosθ, and w = fdcosθ. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

How to Use the Work Calculator

  1. Select whether you want to solve for work, force, or displacement.
  2. Enter the known values.
  3. Enter the angle between force and displacement.
  4. Click Calculate.
  5. Read the result in your chosen unit.

Work Calculation Examples

Example 1: Work done at an angle

A constant force of 25 N acts through a displacement of 10 m at an angle of 40°.

W = Fdcosθ = (25)(10)cos(40°) = 191.5 J

Example 2: Negative work

A friction force of 10 N acts opposite the motion over 10 m. The angle is 180°.

W = (10)(10)cos(180°) = -100 J

Work in Physics

This calculator helps you find work, force, or displacement using the equation W = Fdcosθ. It is useful for problems involving horizontal motion, angled forces, and negative work such as friction.

FAQ

What is the formula for work?

The work formula is W = Fdcosθ.

How do you calculate work done at an angle?

Multiply force by displacement and then multiply by cosθ, where θ is the angle between the force and displacement.

Can work be negative?

Yes. Work is negative when the force acts opposite the displacement, such as friction.

What is the SI unit of work?

The SI unit is the joule (J), which is equal to one newton-meter.

Related Physics Calculators

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References

  • Giancoli, Douglas C. Physics: Principles with Applications. Pearson.
  • The current page and code-behind both use the standard work relation W = Fdcosθ for solving work, force, and displacement.