A constant force of 50 N is applied to a 10 kg box, moving it a distance of 5.0 m along a horizontal surface. If the box was initially at rest, what is its final kinetic energy?

Core Concept

Using the work-energy theorem, the work done on the object equals its change in kinetic energy. Work = force × distance = 50 N × 5.0 m = 250 J. Since the object started from rest, this work equals its final kinetic energy. Option A would be correct if the distance was only 1 m. Option C would result from using 100 N instead of 50 N. Option D would be correct if the mass was 20 kg instead of 10 kg.