Final answer:
Batteries are used to move a sufficient number of electrons to carry out work, such as lighting a bulb by transferring energy to a filament, with a steady input of power except in superconductors.
Step-by-step explanation:
Objects such as batteries are used to move sufficient number of electrons to perform a useful job by generating an electric potential difference. This creates an electric field that does work in moving the electrons through a conductor without necessarily increasing their kinetic energy. For example, within an incandescent lightbulb, the electric field enables electrons to move and transfer energy to the tungsten filament, thereby increasing its temperature to the point where it glows and emits light. However, a continuous power input is required to maintain a flow of current, except in the case of superconductors, which can have a steady current without a continual supply of energy due to their unique properties.