Which of the following statements best describes work?

The correct choice is based on the definition of work in a scientific context. Work is specifically defined as the energy transferred to an object when a force is applied over a distance. To calculate work, the formula used is Work = Force × Distance × cos(θ), where θ is the angle between the force applied and the direction of movement. This definition emphasizes that for work to be done, there must be both a force exerted and movement occurring in the direction of that force.

In contrast, the other options describe different concepts. The total input of energy refers to the initial energy available in a system, rather than the specific action of work being done on an object. Potential energy, noted here, is a type of stored energy based on an object's position or state, but it does not describe the action of work. Lastly, the measure of an object's speed pertains to its motion and does not relate to the energy transfer involved in performing work. Therefore, the statement about work being the energy transferred when a force is applied accurately captures the essence of what work involves in physics.