What is the meaning of interaction in science?

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    Interaction Means
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of "interaction" in science, particularly in the context of masses, charges, or particles. Participants explore the meaning of interaction, questioning whether it implies physical contact or if it can be understood more broadly as a form of influence.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether interaction implies physical contact between entities.
  • Another participant suggests that interaction can be understood as 'influence' rather than requiring contact.
  • A third participant provides examples of forces (gravitational, electric, magnetic) that represent interactions without necessitating contact.
  • Further, a participant emphasizes that interaction can occur without physical proximity, highlighting the idea of two-way dependency as a defining characteristic.
  • One participant notes that the notion of contact itself is complex and may not be as straightforward as it seems.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the definition of interaction, with some arguing for a broader interpretation that does not require contact, while others seem to imply that contact may be a relevant consideration. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the precise meaning of interaction.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the definitions of interaction and contact, as well as the assumptions underlying the examples provided. The discussion does not resolve these complexities.

manimaran1605
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when we say two masses or charges or particles interacts with each other, we have used the word interacts, what does that mean, does that mean a physical contact or something of that kind?
 
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It needn't be a contact. Interaction is a word for 'influence'.
 
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For example, there is a force between them - gravitational, electric, magnetic, etc.
 
You and me are interacting and you could be in China for all I know. There just needs to be a two-way dependency for there to be an interaction, no requirement that the dependency is based on contact.

Contact itself is a slippery notion.
 

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