Final answer:
A power-actuated tool that operates on the captive piston principle is a low-velocity tool (B). It uses a piston to drive the fastener at a controlled speed, unlike high-velocity tools that work on expanding gases with more force and speed.
Step-by-step explanation:
A power-actuated tool that uses the captive piston principle is considered a low-velocity tool. These low-velocity tools rely on a piston contained within the tool to drive the fastener, and they do not provide the same level of force as high-velocity tools. High-velocity tools use expanding gases to directly exert force on the fastener, resulting in a much higher exiting velocity.
Examples of the captive piston principle in action can be seen in everyday life, such as a person standing up from a seated position or a car accelerating while driving. Both of these examples illustrate the transfer of energy that occurs within a power-actuated, low-velocity tool, where a contained internal force results in motion.