What is defined as a push or pull exerted on an object?

The definition of a push or pull exerted on an object corresponds to the term "force." In physics, force is recognized as an interaction that, when unopposed, will change the motion of an object. This interaction can result in acceleration, deceleration, or the deformation of the object. The unit of measurement for force is the Newton, which quantifies the amount of force needed to accelerate a one-kilogram mass by one meter per second squared.

The other choices do not align with this definition. Work refers to the energy transferred to or from an object via the application of force along a displacement. Torque relates specifically to rotational forces and how they affect the rotation of an object around an axis. Power, on the other hand, is defined as the rate at which work is done or energy is transferred over time. Each of these concepts is crucial in mechanics, but they refer to different physical phenomena compared to force, which directly embodies the idea of push or pull.