The ability to do work is called energy. Energy is defined as the ability of a body to do work, and it is measured in Joules (J) . Work is the transmission of energy, and it is defined as the magnitude of the force multiplied by the distance moved by the object in the direction of the applied force. The unit of work is Joule, and 1 Joule is equal to 1 Newton multiplied by 1 meter. Other words that can be loosely defined as "the ability to do work" include capable and ability.