Work is defined as the product of force and the distance over which that force is applied in the direction of the force. The formula for work (W) is:
\[ W = F \cdot d \cdot \cos(\theta) \]
where:
- \( F \) is the force applied,
- \( d \) is the distance moved in the direction of the force,
- \( \theta \) is the angle between the force and the direction of movement.
In this scenario, the person applies a force of 500 newtons against the wall, but since the wall does not move, the distance (\( d \)) over which the force is applied is 0 meters.
Thus, the work done by the person can be calculated as:
\[ W = 500 , \text{N} \cdot 0 , \text{m} \cdot \cos(0) = 0 , \text{joules} \]
Therefore, the correct answer is 0 joules.