How is work defined in physics?

In physics, work is defined as the product of the force applied to an object and the distance over which that force acts, specifically in the direction of the force. This means that for work to be done, a force must cause an object to move. The formula for calculating work is expressed as:

Work = Force × Distance × cos(θ)

where θ is the angle between the force and the direction of motion. When the force is applied in the same direction as the motion, the cos(θ) component equals 1, simplifying the equation to Work = Force × Distance.

Thus, the correct answer reflects this fundamental relationship, highlighting that work is not just about the amount of force or distance separately but their interaction together. This concept is vital in understanding energy transfer in physical systems, such as in mechanics and various applications in engineering.

Considering the other options, they don't accurately represent the definition of work in physics; force divided by distance suggests a rate or intensity rather than a total quantity, while force plus distance or force subtracted from distance does not maintain the dimensional consistency needed to relate to work, which should always yield a product related to energy.