Which statement best describes work?
A. Work is done whenever an object is held in place by multiple forces.
B. Work is done whenever a force acts on an object.
C. Work is done when a force causes an object to move.
D. Work is done when an object continues in motion without a push.
B. Work is done whenever a force acts on an object.
To determine which statement best describes work, we need to understand the concept of work in physics.
Work, in physics, refers to the transfer of energy that is caused by the application of a force over a distance. It is related to the displacement of an object caused by the force applied to it.
Let's evaluate each statement to find the most accurate description:
A. Work is done whenever an object is held in place by multiple forces.
This statement is not an accurate description of work. When an object is held in place, there is no displacement, and therefore no work is done.
B. Work is done whenever a force acts on an object.
This statement encompasses the idea of work more accurately. Whenever a force is applied to an object, work can be done. However, this statement does not explicitly include the requirement of displacement.
C. Work is done when a force causes an object to move.
This statement provides a more precise description of work. When a force is applied to an object and it causes a displacement or motion, work is done. This is because the force applied results in the transfer of energy to the object, causing it to move.
D. Work is done when an object continues in motion without a push.
This statement does not accurately describe work. Work is related to the application of force and the resulting displacement. It does not depend on an object continuing its motion without a push.
Based on the explanations above, statement C, "Work is done when a force causes an object to move," is the most accurate description of work.