In the formula, W = Fdcos⁡θ, where W is the work done by a Force, F, to create displacement, d, what is the definition of θ?

Answer 1

In the formula \( W = Fd \cos \theta \), where:

• \( W \) is the work done,
• \( F \) is the magnitude of the force,
• \( d \) is the magnitude of the displacement,
• \( \theta \) is the angle between the direction of the force \( F \) and the direction of the displacement \( d \).

Thus, \( \theta \) represents the angular relationship between the applied force and the direction of motion (displacement). When \( \theta = 0^\circ \), the force is in the same direction as the displacement, and the work done is maximized. When \( \theta = 90^\circ \), the force is perpendicular to the displacement, and no work is done.