What is the term for the ability to do work?

The term for the ability to do work is energy. Energy is a fundamental concept in physics that refers to the capacity of a system to perform work, which is defined as the transfer of energy that occurs when a force acts on an object. In many contexts, energy is measured in joules, which ties directly to work done, as one joule is equivalent to the work done when a force of one newton acts through a distance of one meter.

Understanding energy is crucial in radiation safety, as it helps professionals analyze and quantify the effects of radiation on materials and living organisms, where the energy deposited by radiation can result in biological changes or damage. This knowledge is essential for risk assessment and implementing appropriate safety measures in environments where radiation is present.