What is defined as a set of interacting objects or particles in mechanics?

In mechanics, a "system" refers to a defined set of interacting objects or particles that are considered together in order to analyze their behavior. This concept allows us to simplify complex physical scenarios by isolating specific components and examining how they interact with one another in terms of forces, motion, and energy transfer.

For example, when studying the motion of a car, the system might include the car itself, the road, and any forces acting upon it, such as friction and gravity. By defining a system, we can apply the laws of physics, such as Newton's laws of motion, more effectively to understand the dynamics at play.

The other terms have distinct meanings: an "object" typically refers to a single item or entity, a "force" pertains to an interaction that causes an object to accelerate or change its velocity, and the "environment" generally encompasses everything outside the defined system that can influence its behavior, such as external forces or constraints. Thus, the concept of a system is central to mechanical analysis as it provides a framework for understanding interactions among the defined components.