Work (physics)
In Newtonian mechanics, work is a measure of energy expended in applying force over a distance.
For the motion of a body against a constant force, work can be expressed as:
- W =
 ยท 
or, with the dot product expanded:
-
where
- W : work (energy)
- : force vector
- : distance moved (also a vector)
- α : angle between and
In modern physics, the term energy is generally used to refer to all forms of energy, including mechanical work.
The SI derived unit of work is the Joule, which in Newtonian mechanics is often referred to as a newton-metre (Nm). Other units include the erg, the foot-pound, and the foot-poundal.
Referenced By
Dot product | Generalized coordinates | Lagrangian mechanics | Letters used in Maths and Science | List of letters used in mathematics and science | List of physics topics R-Z | Magnetostriction | Matteuci effect | Scalar product | Villari effect | Wiedemann effect | Work
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