Work Done Calculator
Calculate work done in joules from force and distance, or solve for the missing variable in physics work problems, free in your browser.
Enter Values
Range 0–180
How to use this calculator
- Enter force (N) and distance (m).
- Optionally set the angle between the force and the motion.
How it works
Work = force × distance × cos(angle). At 0° the force is fully along the motion.
Worked example
20 N over 5 m. Work = 20 × 5 = 100 J.
Common mistakes
- Forgetting that force perpendicular to motion (90°) does no work.
- Mixing units — use newtons and metres for joules.
Frequently asked questions
How is work done calculated?
Work = force × distance × cos(angle), where the angle is between the force and the motion. Aligned force and motion give W = F × d.
Is work the same as energy?
Work is energy transferred by a force, measured in joules — the same unit as energy, because work changes an object's energy.
Why include the angle?
Only the component of force along the direction of motion does work; cos(angle) accounts for that.
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Cite this tool
Zerdly. (2026). Work Done Calculator. Retrieved from https://www.zerdly.com/tools/work-done-calculator/
Tip: Enter any known values to calculate the remaining results.
Designed to run locally in your browser. Tool inputs are not intentionally stored by Zerdly unless stated otherwise.