To calculate the work done on an object when you push it, you multiply the force you apply by the distance over which you are pushing (assuming the force is applied in the direction of the motion).
The formula for work (W) is given by:
\[ W = F \times d \times \cos(\theta) \]
where:
- \( W \) is the work done,
- \( F \) is the magnitude of the applied force,
- \( d \) is the distance moved in the direction of the force,
- \( \theta \) is the angle between the force vector and the direction of motion.
In the case where you are pushing in the exact direction of motion, \( \theta = 0^\circ \) and thus \( \cos(0) = 1\), simplifying the equation to \( W = F \times d \).