The difference between energy and forces

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the distinction between energy and the four fundamental forces in physics. Forces are defined as agents that cause acceleration, while energy represents conserved quantities within systems. The relationship between work, force, and distance is articulated through the equation: work (energy expended) = force * distance. Importantly, an object can experience forces without a change in energy, but a change in energy necessitates the presence of a force.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Familiarity with the concept of work in physics
  • Basic knowledge of energy conservation principles
  • Awareness of the four fundamental forces: gravitational, electromagnetic, strong nuclear, and weak nuclear
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the mathematical formulation of Newton's laws of motion
  • Explore the concept of work-energy theorem in classical mechanics
  • Investigate the implications of energy conservation in closed systems
  • Learn about the four fundamental forces and their roles in physical interactions
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching fundamental concepts, and anyone interested in understanding the foundational principles of motion and energy in the universe.

bobsmith76
Messages
336
Reaction score
0
What is the difference between energy and the four fundamental forces. They both seem to move bodies, so what's the difference?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Look at the math:

work (energy expended) = force * distance
 
bobsmith76 said:
What is the difference between energy and the four fundamental forces. They both seem to move bodies, so what's the difference?

Forces cause motion (namely, acceleration). Energies are quantities that objects have that are "conserved" when they interact with other objects. They are distinct quantities and concepts, though. An object can have forces acting on it, but have no change in energy. However, the converse is not true; an object can not have a change in energy without some force acting upon it.
 

Similar threads

High School Difference between Gravitational Force and Gravity?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Undergrad Exploring Energy in Astronomy: Kinetic, Potential & Mass?
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
3K
Graduate Could the Laws of Physics Be Proportional to Entropy?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
680
Undergrad What can we scientifically measure directly?
  • · Replies 27 ·
Replies
27
Views
4K
High School Does Energy Exist as a Physical Entity or Merely a Mathematical Concept?
  • · Replies 28 ·
Replies
28
Views
4K
High School Distance between two points on Earth doesn't increase with altitude?
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
4K
High School Four fundamental forces of physics -- explanation for dummies please
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
High School Some Questions about Electric Current/Capacitors to help my understanding
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
High School Why are things the color they are?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
High School Curious about Work and Energy Consumption
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K