Work and Power Calculator
Calculate mechanical work from force and distance, and the power from the time taken.
How it works
W = F · d and P = W / t
Work is done when a force moves an object through a distance in the direction of the force. Power is the rate at which that work is done — the same work delivered faster means more power. One mechanical horsepower equals 745.7 watts.
Worked example
A 100 N force over 10 m does W = 1,000 J. If that takes 5 s, the power is 1,000 ÷ 5 = 200 W (about 0.27 hp).
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between work and power?
Work is the total energy transferred (joules). Power is how fast it is transferred (watts, or joules per second). A weak motor can do the same work as a strong one — it just takes longer.
Why must the force be along the motion?
Only the component of force in the direction of movement does work. A force at right angles to the motion, such as the normal force, does no work at all.
How many watts in a horsepower?
One mechanical horsepower is 745.7 watts. This calculator uses that figure to convert the power result into horsepower.
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