A box is pushed on a horizontal floor with a force of 20 N for a distance of 5 m in the direction of the force. What is the work done by the force?

Appeared in: RRB Nsg. Superintendent-2026 (Shift -3rd)

Explanation

The question tests the physical concept of work, which is the energy transferred when a force causes an object to move over a distance.
The formula to calculate work (W) is the product of the applied force (F) and the distance (d) moved in the direction of the force: W = F × d.
Given a force of 20 Newtons (N) and a distance of 5 meters (m), the calculation is: Work = 20 N × 5 m.
The result is 100 Joules (J). The Joule is the standard unit of work and energy in the International System of Units (SI).

Option A: This value is incorrect. It does not result from the correct multiplication of the given force and distance.
Option B: This value results from incorrectly adding the force and distance (20 + 5 = 25). Work is a product of force and distance, not their sum.
Option D: This value is half of the correct answer. It would be obtained if either the force or the distance were half of their stated values.

Visual 1: Diagram - An illustration showing a block on a horizontal surface. A blue arrow labeled 'Force = 20 N' points to the right, pushing the block. A red arrow along the ground indicates 'Distance = 5 m', visually representing the components of the work calculation.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Calculation of work done by a constant force as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
While a physics concept, understanding force and work is fundamental to nursing practice, especially in applying principles of body mechanics to prevent musculoskeletal injury.
Nurses perform 'work' when pushing wheelchairs, moving beds, or repositioning patients. Using efficient techniques reduces the force required and minimizes physical strain.
What if? If there was a friction force of 5 N opposing the motion, the work done by the applied force would still be 100 J. However, the net work on the box (which changes its kinetic energy) would be (20 N - 5 N) × 5 m = 75 J.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify that this is a physics calculation question asking for 'work done'.
Recall the specific formula for work: Work = Force × Distance.
Carefully extract the numerical values and their units from the problem: Force = 20 N, Distance = 5 m.
Confirm that the force is applied in the direction of the distance, as stated in the problem. This means the simple formula applies directly without needing trigonometry.
Substitute the values into the formula: Work = 20 × 5.
Calculate the product to find the answer (100) and select the option with the correct unit, Joules (J).

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full RRB Nsg. Superintendent-2026 (Shift -3rd)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.