In physics, work is defined as the product of force and displacement. It represents the transfer of energy that occurs when an object is moved by a force. To calculate work, we need to know both the magnitude and direction of the force, as well as the displacement of the object. The formula for calculating work is:

Work = Force * Displacement * cos(θ)

Where θ is the angle between the force and displacement vectors.

Let's consider a simple example to understand this concept better. Imagine pushing a box with a force of 50 Newtons in the horizontal direction over a distance of 5 meters. If the angle between the force and displacement is 0° (cos(0°) = 1), the work done can be calculated as:

Work = 50 N * 5 m * 1 = 250 Joules

In this case, 250 Joules of work is done on the box by the applied force.