The Physics of Work
The Physics of Work Video Tutorial explains the concept and mathematics of work. The definition of work the means of identifying work, the mathematical formula and associated unit for work, and the distinction between positive and negative work are emphasized.
The video lesson answers the following questions:
- What is meant by work and how can you know if work is being done on an object?
- What is the equation for work?
- How are positive work and negative work distinguished from each other?
Video
You can watch the video below, or click here to watch on YouTube (opens in a new tab).
To improve the effectiveness of the learning experience, The Physics Classroom has provided the following tools:
Additional and Related Learning Tools
Work Concept Builder
There's nothing like a Concept Builder for quick checks of your understanding. This one on the topic of Work will test your understanding of examples and non-examples of work and the distinction between + and - work. Try the first two activities for a great check up.
Minds On Phyiscs - Mission WE1: Work
You want to raise your game a notch? Here's how: click this link and try the newly revised Minds On Physics mission on the topic of work. Your reward will be given on test day.
The Calculator Pad: Work and Energy Problem Set, Problems #1-4
Not all Physics courses are created equal. If yours emphasizes the solving of Physics word problems, then get acquainted with our Calculator Pad section. You will find problems with a wide range of difficulty level, answers to every problem, and an audio-guided solution. Check it out!
Physics Classroom Tutorial. Work, Energy and Power Chapter: Lesson 1: Concept and Mathematics of Work
Our Tutorial section always comes through with a common sense explanation of a topic. It makes a great written reference. When you need to brush up on the topic of work, check out this page. It works!
Teacher Resources
Curriculum Corner, Work, Energy, and Power Section: Work
Get students active and thinking with one of our free Think Sheets from the Curriclum Corner section of our website. Here's one on ...
Work
Teacher Toolkits, Work-Energy Fundamentals
Try a Teacher Toolkit ... you might be very glad that you did. Each toolkit includes annotated links to vetted resources from across the web that we feel reliably support the specific topic. Give this one on work and energy a try.
Work Concept Builder
There's nothing like a Concept Builder for quick checks of student understanding. This one on the topic of Work will test student understanding of examples and non-examples of work and the distinction between + and - work. The first two activities provide a great follow up to this video.
Minds On Phyiscs - Mission WE1: Work
Our newly revised HTML5 version of Minds On Physics can provide your students the workout they need to be successful in Physics. Each question in these interactive questioning modules are accompanied by a question-specicific help page. Best of all, you can purchase an account and track your students' progress. For intense practice, you can't go wrong with "MOPs".
The Calculator Pad: Work and Energy Problem Set, Problems #1-4
If your course provides a moderate to heavy emphasis on the solving of Physics word problems, then the Calculator Pad should become your friend (and more importantly, your students' friend). Each chapter contains a set of problems with answers and an audio-guided solution. Send your students there to improve their problem-solving skills.
Physics Classroom Tutorial. Work, Energy and Power Chapter: Lesson 1: Concept and Mathematics of Work
Our Tutorial section always comes through with a common sense explanation of a topic. It makes a great written reference. When students need to brush up on the topic of work, direct them to this page. It positively works!
Lesson Notes
Download (opens in a new tab) or view below
Slides
Do you like the slides we used? They are available in our low cost Teacher Presentation Pack, along with other updated materials used in our presentation.