Final answer:
The maximum energy that can be transferred to the nail is 9.8 J.
Step-by-step explanation:
The maximum energy that can be transferred to the nail can be calculated using the principle of conservation of energy. The potential energy of the hammer at a height of 0.5 m can be calculated as mgh, where m is the mass of the hammer, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is the height. The potential energy at maximum height is 2 kg * 9.8 m/s² * 0.5 m = 9.8 J.
Therefore, the maximum energy that can be transferred to the nail is 9.8 Joules (J).
Answer: A) 9.8 J