Which of the following best describes $\mathrm{energy}$?

• A. The $\mathrm{force}$ applied over a $\mathrm{distance}$
• B. A measure of the ability to do $\mathrm{work}$ or cause $\mathrm{change}$
• C. The rate at which $\mathrm{work}$ is done
• D. The change in $\mathrm{velocity}$ over $\mathrm{time}$

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that energy is a fundamental concept in physics, often defined as the ability to do work or cause change.
2. Recognize that work is defined as the product of force and the distance over which it is applied, but energy itself is not just force applied over a distance.
3. Differentiate between energy and power: power is the rate at which work is done, not energy itself.
4. Clarify that energy is not related to the change in velocity over time, which is actually the definition of acceleration.
5. Conclude that the best description of energy is 'a measure of the ability to do work or cause change,' as it encompasses various forms of energy such as kinetic, potential, thermal, etc.