Work done and energy transfer

When a force causes an object to move through a distance work is done on the object. So a force does work on an object when the force causes a displacement of the object.

The work done by a force on an object can be calculated using the equation:

\(\text{work done} = \text{force} × \text{distance} \)
(moved along the line of action of the force)

\(W = Fs\)

work done, W, in joules, J
force, F, in newtons, N
distance, s, in metres

---

One joule of work is done when a force of one newton causes a displacement of one metre.

1 joule = 1 newton-metre

Students should be able to describe the energy transfer involved when work is done.

---

Students should be able to convert between newton-metres and joules.

Work done against the frictional forces acting on an object causes a rise in the temperature of the object.