Question

Difficulty: EasyWork, Energy, and Power

In physical science, work, energy, and power describe how forces interact with matter over distance and time. Match each physical quantity with its correct scientific definition.

  • WorkThe energy transferred when an applied force moves an object across a distance
  • Kinetic EnergyThe energy an object possesses solely by virtue of its motion
  • PowerThe rate at which work is performed or energy is converted per unit of time
  • Gravitational Potential EnergyThe energy stored within an object due to its vertical position or elevation in a gravitational field

Answer

Work corresponds to the energy transferred across a distance; Kinetic Energy corresponds to the energy of an object in motion; Power corresponds to the rate of doing work per unit time; Gravitational Potential Energy corresponds to the energy stored due to elevated position.
Each quantity maps directly to its fundamental physical definition: Work is force exerted over a distance, Kinetic Energy is the energy of motion, Power is work per unit time, and Gravitational Potential Energy is stored energy from elevated position.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the definition of Work
Work is the product of force and distance (W=FdW = Fd), representing energy transfer.
Work measures how much energy is mechanically transferred when a force moves an object.
2
Identify the definition of Kinetic Energy
Kinetic energy is the energy of a moving object (KE=12mv2KE = \frac{1}{2}mv^2).
Motion is the defining physical attribute of kinetic energy.
3
Identify the definition of Power
Power is the rate at which work is done over time (P=WtP = \frac{W}{t}).
Power accounts for time, measuring how fast work is completed.
4
Identify the definition of Gravitational Potential Energy
Gravitational potential energy is stored energy based on height (PE=mghPE = mgh).
Position in a gravitational field determines stored gravitational potential energy.

Key Concept

Fundamental definitions and relationships among work, kinetic energy, potential energy, and power in mechanics.
Estimated Time:45s
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