'pull' & 'push'- electromagnetic force?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the electromagnetic forces responsible for the phenomena of push and pull. When pushing an object, the repulsion between the outer shell electrons of the contacting materials creates a strong force that prevents penetration, illustrating the principle that matter is primarily composed of empty space. Additionally, the act of pulling is redefined as a form of pushing, as it involves wrapping around the object, emphasizing the role of electric fields in these interactions. The conversation highlights that electrons do not physically touch but rather interact through their electric fields.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electromagnetic forces
  • Basic knowledge of atomic structure and electron behavior
  • Familiarity with electric fields and charge interactions
  • Concept of matter as primarily empty space
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of electromagnetic force in detail
  • Explore atomic structure and electron shell configurations
  • Learn about electric field interactions and their implications
  • Investigate the concept of matter density and its relation to space
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators explaining fundamental forces, and anyone interested in the mechanics of atomic interactions and electromagnetic theory.

debayan
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how can wec trace the origin of push and pull to electromagnetic forces? I mean when we push a thing what actually are we doing? What are the atoms at the contact surface actually doing?
 
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The electrons in the outer shells of the atoms making up the materials coming into contact will repel each other with the (very strong) force between like charges. That's why you can't walk through walls, even though you and the walls are mainly empty space.
 
Note that when you "pull" an object, whether with you hand, a rope, chain, etc., you are wrapping your hand, rope, etc. around some part of the object so it really is a "push". Oh- and electrons don't actually "come into contact". Mentz114 meant that their electric fields repel one another.
 

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