Which of the following best describes mechanical work?

Mechanical work is fundamentally defined as the process of applying a force over a distance. When a force acts on an object causing it to move, work is done. The equation for mechanical work is expressed as the product of the force and the distance moved in the direction of the force. This relationship illustrates how mechanical work is directly related to both the magnitude of the force applied and the extent to which that force causes movement.

In contrast, while the options mention concepts like machines, energy, and power, these do not encapsulate the precise definition of mechanical work. Work is specifically the integral of force and distance, making the second option the most accurate representation of the concept in question.