What term describes the ability to do work or move an object?

The term that describes the ability to do work or move an object is energy. In physics, energy is defined as the capacity to perform work, which encompasses a wide variety of forms including kinetic energy (the energy of motion) and potential energy (stored energy due to position). When energy is applied, it can result in the movement of objects or the performance of work in a system.

Understanding energy is crucial because it is a fundamental concept that underpins many processes in both physical and chemical systems. For instance, chemical reactions involve the transformation of energy from reactants to products, showcasing how energy plays a pivotal role in driving reactions and changes in state.

Other terms, such as force, power, and work, are related but distinctly different concepts. Force is an interaction that causes an object to accelerate, work is done when a force causes a displacement, and power is the rate at which work is performed or energy is transferred. Each of these terms has its own specific definition and application within the field of physics.