Final answer:
The work that involves changing the position of the cell or a cell structure is mechanical work. This includes activities such as the movement of cilia, muscle contractions, and vesicle transport, all powered by energy from ATP.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of work that involves a change in the position of the cell or a cell structure is mechanical work. Mechanical work in biological systems is often visualized when an object, such as a cell or part of a cell, is moved a certain distance against a force, like gravity. An example of mechanical work at the cellular level would be the powering of cilia or flagella movement, contracting muscle fibers to create movement, or the transport of vesicles within the cell.
Living organisms, including cells, are constantly performing work to maintain homeostasis, grow, and reproduce. The energy transformations that occur inside cells involve converting chemical energy from organic molecules like sugars and fats into energy stored in molecules of ATP (adenosine triphosphate). The energy stored in ATP is then used to do various types of cellular work, including mechanical work.