work

In physics, work is the transfer of energy that occurs when a force moves an object through displacement. The amount of work depends on the force component along the motion and the distance moved: W = ∫ F · ds. If the force acts perpendicular to the displacement or if there is no displacement, work is zero. The unit of work is the joule.

In everyday language, work refers to tasks performed to achieve a goal, and especially to employment for wages. It can be physical or mental, individual or collective, paid or unpaid. Economic analysis often considers labor supply, wages, hours, productivity, and unemployment.

Historically, work evolved from manual and agricultural labor to industrial and information-age activities. Common categories include manual labor, skilled trades, service work, knowledge work, and creative work. Technological changes, outsourcing, and the gig economy have affected how work is organized and compensated.

Work shapes identity, social status, and well-being. Policies aim to ensure safety, fair pay, reasonable hours, and equal opportunity. Unions and regulations secure protections, while debates continue about flexibility, remote work, and the right to disconnect.

Beyond human labor, the concept of work appears in physics, biology, and engineering as measures of energy expenditure and efficiency.