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Classical Mechanics

Work

The scalar energy transferred to or from an object by a force acting through a displacement.

Governing formula W = F · d = |F| |d| cos θ
SI unit J (N·m)

In depth

Work is positive when force and displacement have components in the same direction, negative when in opposite directions, and zero when force is perpendicular to displacement.

Examples in the real world

Lifting a 10 kg box vertically upward by 2 meters performs approximately 196 Joules of positive work against gravity.