Concept:
Use the Work-Energy Theorem:
\[
W=\Delta K.
\]
The work done by the retarding force equals the change in kinetic energy.
Step 1: Calculate the initial kinetic energy.
Given,
\[
m=2\,\text{kg},
\qquad
u=4\,\text{ms}^{-1}.
\]
Hence,
\[
K_i
=
\frac12 mu^2
=
\frac12(2)(4)^2
=
16\ \text{J}.
\]
Step 2: Find the work done by the variable force.
The force is
\[
F=-12x.
\]
Therefore,
\[
W
=
\int_{0.5}^{1.5}F\,dx
=
\int_{0.5}^{1.5}(-12x)\,dx.
\]
\[
=
-12
\left[\frac{x^2}{2}\right]_{0.5}^{1.5}.
\]
\[
=
-6
\left(1.5^2-0.5^2\right).
\]
\[
=
-6(2.25-0.25).
\]
\[
=
-12\ \text{J}.
\]
Step 3: Apply the work-energy theorem.
\[
W
=
K_f-K_i.
\]
\[
-12
=
K_f-16.
\]
\[
K_f=4\ \text{J}.
\]
Step 4: Find the final speed.
\[
K_f
=
\frac12 mv^2.
\]
\[
4
=
\frac12(2)v^2.
\]
\[
v^2=4.
\]
\[
v=2\,\text{ms}^{-1}.
\]
Therefore,
\[
\boxed{v=2\,\text{ms}^{-1}}
\]
\[
\boxed{\text{Answer = (C)}}
\]