ForcesIntroduction

The Physics Definition of "Work"

Part of Work Done & Energy Transfer · GCSE GCSE Physics revision

This introduction covers The Physics Definition of "Work" within Work Done & Energy Transfer for GCSE Physics. Revise Work Done & Energy Transfer in Forces for GCSE Physics with 13 exam-style questions and 6 flashcards. Use this page as part of a wider topic revision path rather than treating it as an isolated fact. It is section 1 of 13 in this topic. Use this introduction to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.

Topic position

Section 1 of 13

Practice

13 questions

Recall

6 flashcards

📖 The Physics Definition of "Work"

In everyday language, holding a heavy box is "hard work." But in physics, if the box doesn't MOVE, you've done ZERO work! Work requires both force AND movement in the direction of the force. Push a car 10 metres and you've done work. Hold a car stationary for an hour and — despite being exhausted — you've done no physics work at all. Work is the bridge between forces and energy: work done = energy transferred.

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Read this section alongside the surrounding pages in Work Done & Energy Transfer. That gives you the full topic sequence instead of a single isolated revision point.

Key Facts About Work Done Work Done and Energy Transfer The Work Done Equation

Practice Questions for Work Done & Energy Transfer

Which equation correctly represents work done?

A. Work done = force / distance
B. Work done = force x distance
C. Work done = force + distance
D. Work done = distance / force

1 markfoundation

Explain what is meant by 'work done' in physics. Include the conditions required for work to be done.

2 marksstandard

Quick Recall Flashcards

Key Facts About Work Done

Unit: Joules (J) — same as energy!

Key Facts About Work Done

1 Joule = 1 Newton × 1 metre (1 J = 1 Nm)

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Work Done & Energy Transfer

Key Facts About Work Done