Concept:The generalized Work-Energy Principle states that the net work done on a system can manifest as a change in kinetic energy, potential energy, or total mechanical energy, depending on the forces acting (conservative vs. non-conservative).
Formula:$$ W_{\text{net}} = \Delta K.E + \Delta P.E $$
Solution:- Work done on a freely moving body changes its Kinetic Energy (Work-Kinetic Energy Theorem).
- Work done against a conservative force (like gravity or a spring) changes its Potential Energy.
- Work done on a mass-spring system can change the Total Energy.
- Therefore, work can equal the change in any of these energies depending on the exact conditions.
Why other options are incorrect:While work equals change in kinetic energy specifically for the net force, and change in potential energy for conservative forces, stating only one of them is incomplete in a general sense.
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