Final answer:
Scientifically, energy is defined as the capacity to do work, which involves applying a force through a distance, such as lifting an apple or inflating a tire. So the correct option is B.
Step-by-step explanation:
In scientific terms, energy is defined as the capacity to do work. Work is a well-defined concept in physics that relates to applying a force over a distance. For instance, when you lift an object against gravity or move an object, you are doing work, which requires energy. Different types of work include mechanical work, electrical work, and work against gravitational or magnetic fields. In the context of gases, work is done during changes in pressure or volume. Energy comes in many forms, such as kinetic or potential energy, and is measured in Joules. A Joule is equivalent to the amount of work done when lifting a small apple (98 grams) vertically up one meter.
Energy also relates to its ability to supply heat. For example, when inflating a bicycle tire, you are doing work by moving air into the tire against the surrounding air pressure, which is a demonstration of energy. The work-energy theorem further establishes the relationship between the work done on an object by an external force and the changes in the object's kinetic energy. Hence, options such as the motion of an object, a force used on an object, and a change in temperature are related to energy but do not define it as accurately as the ability to do work. Thus, the correct definition of energy in scientific terms is the ability to do work or option B.