Mechanical Work Calculator
Physics utility for calculating work (Joules/Ft-lbs) with vector angle adjustments. Features interactive force slider and friction coefficient tables.
About
In physics, work is not merely effort; it is the energy transferred to or from an object via the application of force along a displacement. Crucially, only the component of force parallel to the direction of motion performs work. Pushing down on a box while sliding it forward wastes energy in the vertical vector.
This tool visualizes the efficiency loss caused by angular force application (θ). It solves W = Fdcos(θ) and supports both Metric (Joules) and Imperial (Foot-pounds) units, making it suitable for both academic physics and mechanical engineering estimations.
Formulas
Work is the dot product of the Force vector and Displacement vector:
If θ = 90° (Force is perpendicular to motion), cos(90°) = 0, meaning zero work is done regardless of the effort exerted.
Reference Data
| Surface Pair | Static Friction (μs) | Kinetic Friction (μk) |
|---|---|---|
| Rubber on Concrete (Dry) | 1.0 | 0.8 |
| Steel on Steel (Dry) | 0.74 | 0.57 |
| Wood on Wood | 0.5 | 0.3 |
| Ice on Ice | 0.1 | 0.03 |
| Teflon on Steel | 0.04 | 0.04 |