What does the work-energy theorem state?

The work-energy theorem is a fundamental principle in physics that establishes a direct relationship between the work done on an object and its kinetic energy. Specifically, it states that the total work done by all the forces acting on an object is equal to the change in the object's kinetic energy. This means if work is done on an object, it results in a change in the speed of that object, either increasing or decreasing its kinetic energy.

This theorem is crucial because it helps in analyzing motion by providing a clear and quantitative measure of how forces influence an object's energy state. For instance, if a net force acts on an object and does work, that work contributes directly to the object's kinetic energy change, allowing one to predict how the object's velocity and motion will change as a result of the applied force.

In the context of the other statements, while statements about potential energy and forces also have their places in physics, they do not encapsulate the essence of the work-energy theorem as accurately as the correct choice. The work done correlating to potential energy pertains to gravitational or elastic forces, but does not define the work-energy theorem. The idea of total work being zero in a closed system pertains more to conservation laws rather than the work-energy relationship. Thus, the correct choice