Which term describes the ability of an object to exert a force over a distance?

The term that describes the ability of an object to exert a force over a distance is work. In physics, work is defined as the transfer of energy that occurs when a force is applied to an object and the object moves in the direction of the force. This means that for work to be done, there must be an application of force that results in movement.

Energy, while related to work, refers more broadly to the capacity to do work rather than the action of doing work itself. Force is the interaction that causes an object to move or change its motion, but it does not encompass the distance aspect. Power relates to the rate at which work is done or energy is transferred, effectively describing how quickly work occurs over time. Thus, work is the correct term to describe the combination of force applied over a distance.