The work-energy theorem is a generalized description of motion which states that work done by the sum of all forces acting on an object is equal to change in that object’s kinetic energy. This principle of work and its relationship to kinetic energy is a core mechanical physics concept.
The work-energy theorem describes direct relationship between work and energy, its formula shows that net amount of work done by forces acting on a particle causes a change in that particle’s kinetic energy.
Work is an action that is performed on an object or system and that transfers energy from one location or from one form to another. Basic formula is work = force x distance
Kinetic energy is the energy of motion that an object or system has at a given point in time. Basic mathematical formula is kinetic energy = ½* mass * velocity².
Since work = energy, formulas for each can be substituted to create following work-energy equation: force * distance = ½ * mass * velocity². This equation is transformed into a set of other equations called ‘kinematics equations’.
The work-energy theorem can be derived from Newton’s second law of motion, which concerns inversely proportional relationship between acceleration and mass and directly proportional relationship between net force and acceleration.