More energy transfer

This lesson covers: 

  1. How energy can be stored and transferred
  2. The relationship between force, distance moved, and energy transferred
  3. Calculating the energy transferred when an object moves

Energy transfers are linked to forces and distances

When a force makes an object move, energy is transferred.

The amount transferred depends on:

  • The force applied in newtons (N)
  • The distance moved in metres (m)


This relationship between force, distance moved and energy transferred is described by the equation:

Energy transferred (J) = Force (N) × Distance moved (m) 


So if a large force moves something a small distance, the same amount of energy can be transferred as a smaller force acting over further distance.

Calculating energy transfers

To find the energy transferred when a force moves an object:

  1. State the force in newtons (N)
  2. State the distance moved in metres (m)
  3. Substitute these values into the equation:
  • Energy transferred (J) = Force (N) × Distance moved (m)

Calculating energy transfer example

Illustration of a car pulling a heavy load with a force of 340 N over a distance of 5 m.

For example, if a person pulls a tire 5 m with a force of 340 N:


Step 1 Formula:

Energy transferred (J) = Force (N) × Distance moved (m)


Step 2 Substitution and correct evaluation:

 E = 340 x 5 = 1,700 J