Work
When a force moves an object work is done on the object and energy is converted from one form to another.
The units for work are Joule (J).
Work done = force (F) x displacement (s) = force x displacement in the direction of the force Work done = Fs |
Force and displacement are vectors but work is a scalar.
If the force is applied at an angle
q to the rails the truck has a displacement s along the rails but the truck moves a distance scos
q in the direction of the force F.
In this case the work done on the truck is Fs[cos q]. |