Final answer:
Yes, it is possible for an object to be in a state of accelerated motion due to an external force acting on it, but no work is being done by the force. Work is defined as the transfer of energy from one object to another, or the exertion of a force over a distance. However, an object can still be accelerating without work being done if the force is perpendicular to the direction of motion.
Step-by-step explanation:
Yes, it is possible for an object to be in a state of accelerated motion due to an external force acting on it, but no work is being done by the force.
Work is defined as the transfer of energy from one object to another, or the exertion of a force over a distance. In order for work to be done, there must be a displacement of the object in the direction of the force.
However, an object can still be accelerating without work being done if the force is perpendicular to the direction of motion. For example, when an object moves in a circle at a constant speed, there is a net force acting towards the center of the circle, which causes the acceleration. But because the force is perpendicular to the direction of motion, no work is being done.