Which of the following best describes the term "work" in physics?

The term "work" in physics is defined as the transfer of energy that occurs when a force is applied to an object, resulting in displacement. For work to be done, two crucial components must be present: a force and a distance over which that force acts. Mathematically, work is calculated by the product of the force applied to an object and the distance moved in the direction of that force.

This definition captures the essence of how energy is transferred in various physical systems, making it foundational in mechanics. For instance, when lifting an object against the force of gravity, energy is transferred from the person to the object, resulting in work done on the object.

The other options do not align with the standard definition of work in physics. An object at rest remaining at rest describes Newton's first law of motion rather than work. The measure of energy stored in an object relates to potential energy, while the combination of mass and velocity refers to momentum, neither of which constitutes the concept of work. Therefore, the choice that accurately reflects the definition of work is the one that identifies it as the transfer of energy due to a force applied over a distance.