What is the formula for power in terms of work done?

Power is the rate at which work is done, given by the formula: Power = Work Done / Time.

In physics, power is a measure of how quickly work is performed. When we talk about work, we mean the energy transferred when a force moves an object over a distance. The formula for power helps us understand how fast this energy transfer happens.

To break it down, if you do a certain amount of work in a shorter period of time, you are using more power. Conversely, if the same amount of work is done over a longer period, the power used is less. The unit of power is the watt (W), where one watt is equal to one joule of work done per second.

For example, if you lift a box weighing 10 newtons to a height of 2 metres, you do 20 joules of work (Work = Force x Distance). If you lift the box in 2 seconds, the power used is 10 watts (Power = 20 joules / 2 seconds). If you take 4 seconds to lift the same box, the power used is 5 watts (Power = 20 joules / 4 seconds).

Understanding this concept is crucial in many real-world applications, such as calculating the power output of engines, electrical appliances, and even in sports science to measure an athlete's performance. By mastering the relationship between work, time, and power, you can better analyse and predict the efficiency and performance of various systems and activities.