Work Done — GCSE Physics Revision
Revise Work Done for GCSE Physics. Step-by-step explanation, worked examples, common mistakes and exam-style practice aligned to AQA, Edexcel, OCR, WJEC, Eduqas, CCEA, Cambridge International (CIE), SQA, IB, AP.
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Go to PowerWhat is Work Done?
Work is done whenever a force causes an object to move. It is a measure of energy transfer. For work to be done, the force must cause a displacement in the direction of the force. The amount of work done is calculated by multiplying the force by the distance moved in the direction of the force.
Board notes: Covered by all major boards (AQA, Edexcel, OCR) at both Foundation and Higher tiers.
Step-by-step explanationWorked example
A box is pushed 5m across a floor with a force of 20N. Calculate the work done. Solution: Work Done = Force x Distance. Work Done = 20N x 5m = 100J.
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Common mistakes
- 1Confusing work done with effort. Just because you are pushing hard against a wall (applying a force), if the wall doesn't move, no work is done.
- 2Forgetting to use the distance moved in the direction of the force. If a force is applied at an angle, you must use the component of the distance in the direction of the force.
- 3Using the wrong units. Work done is measured in Joules (J), force in Newtons (N), and distance in metres (m).
Work Done exam questions
Exam-style questions for Work Done with mark-scheme style solutions and timing practice. Aligned to AQA, Edexcel, OCR, WJEC, Eduqas, CCEA, Cambridge International (CIE), SQA, IB, AP specifications.
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Step-by-step method
Step-by-step explanation
4 steps · Worked method for Work Done
Core concept
Work is done whenever a force causes an object to move. It is a measure of energy transfer. For work to be done, the force must cause a displacement in the direction of the force. The amount of work d…
Frequently asked questions
What is the formula for work done?
The formula for work done is: Work Done (J) = Force (N) x Distance (m).
Is work done a scalar or a vector?
Work done is a scalar quantity, meaning it has magnitude but no direction.