How is a joule defined in terms of force and distance?

A joule is defined as the work done when a force of one newton is applied to move an object a distance of one meter. This definition arises from the relationship between force, distance, and work in physics. Specifically, work is calculated as the product of the force applied to an object and the distance over which that force is applied, provided that the force is in the direction of the movement.

In this context, a newton is the standard unit of force in the International System of Units (SI), defined as the amount of force required to accelerate a mass of one kilogram at a rate of one meter per second squared. Therefore, when a force of one newton causes an object to move one meter, one joule of work is performed.

The other options provided do not align with this precise definition of a joule. While energy in thermal systems and watt-hours relate to energy concepts, they do not specifically describe the work done in terms of force and distance as defined by the joule.