Concept:Work is a scalar quantity. The positive (+) or negative (-) signs merely indicate whether energy is being transferred
to the system (positive) or
from the system (negative, like work done against friction). "Greater work" refers to the largest absolute magnitude of energy transferred.
Formula:$$ |W| = \text{Magnitude of energy transfer} $$
Solution:- Compare the absolute magnitudes of the given options:
- |+100| = 100 J
- |-1000| = 1000 J
- |-100| = 100 J
- |+200| = 200 J
- 1000 J is the greatest magnitude of energy transferred.
Why other options are incorrect:Students often mistake the (-) sign for a mathematical algebraic value (where -1000 is smaller than +100). In physics, a negative work of 1000 J means 1000 J of energy was removed, which is a "greater" amount of work than adding 100 J.
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