Can energy only be transferred if there is motion.

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SUMMARY

Energy transfer requires motion; if an object does not move when force is applied, no kinetic energy is transferred. For example, when punching an immovable object, the energy exerted does not increase the object's mass, as described by the equation E=mc². However, energy can be absorbed in the form of heat and deformation, particularly in processes like hammering iron. Ultimately, while kinetic energy is linked to motion, other forms of energy can be transferred even without visible movement.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinetic energy and its relationship to motion
  • Familiarity with the concept of energy transfer
  • Basic knowledge of thermodynamics, specifically heat energy
  • Awareness of material deformation and its effects
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of kinetic energy and its calculations
  • Explore the laws of thermodynamics, focusing on energy transfer mechanisms
  • Study material science, particularly how different materials deform under stress
  • Investigate the implications of E=mc² in practical scenarios
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Physics students, engineers, material scientists, and anyone interested in the principles of energy transfer and motion dynamics.

Berney123
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For example if I punch an object and it doesn't move, am I giving it energy, if so after doing that billions of times wouldn't it gain mass because e=mc2.
 
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For example if I punch an object and it doesn't move, am I giving it energy
You are not. The Earth (or whatever prevents the object from moving) pushes against the object in the opposite direction, and the energy gained by the object is 0. If you take deformations into account, you could heat it a tiny bit, but that is not related to the motion of the whole object.
 
Berney123 said:
For example if I punch an object and it doesn't move, am I giving it energy, if so after doing that billions of times wouldn't it gain mass because e=mc2.
Depends I guess. If you are hammering iron to make a sword you transfer quite a lot of energy into unmovable object.
 
Kinetic energy is directly tied to motion, so in that sense, no. However, there are many other types of energy, such as the deformation that has already been alluded to. When you punch a box or you hit a sword with a hammer, however, the give the slightest amount, and in that moment apply a great deal of force, absorbing energy in the form of heat and deformation. The kinetic energy of the object as a whole doesn't change though.
 

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