Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Work is defined as the transfer of energy that occurs when an object is moved against an opposing force. It is calculated by multiplying force applied to an object by the distance over which it moves.
Energy is the ability to do work or cause change. It exists in different forms such as kinetic energy (energy of motion) and potential energy (stored energy).
Force is any interaction that can cause an object's motion to change. It can be represented by pushes, pulls, or any action that results in acceleration.
Mechanical Advantage: Mechanical advantage refers to the ratio between output force and input force in a machine. It determines how much easier a machine makes work.