Which formula represents power in physics?

Power in physics is defined as the rate at which work is done or energy is transferred over time. The correct formula that represents power is given by the equation where power (P) equals work (W) divided by the time (t) it takes to do that work. This reflects how quickly work is performed; for instance, if more work is done in a shorter amount of time, the power output is greater.

In contrast, the other options present different physical concepts. The formula involving work multiplied by time does not accurately reflect any relationship in physics as it suggests a unit of work over time which does not characterize power. The equation relating force and distance describes work rather than power. Lastly, the equation relating mass and acceleration is not directly related to power; it represents Newton's second law of motion, which expresses how force is derived from mass and acceleration.

By focusing on the correct relationship among these variables, power being directly related to the rate of doing work clarifies why the chosen formula is the appropriate representation of power in physics.