Re: How does a lightbulb make something move?

Hi Marissa,

Watts are used to define the rate at which electrical energy is dissipated, and
the rate at which electromagnetic energy is radiated, absorbed, or dissipated. 
The distinction is that this is electrical (or electromagnetic) energy, not
mechanical energy.  Therefore, macroscopic movement is not required.

Also, a force does no work unless the system is free to move along the direction
of the applied force.  So, just because a force is applied to something does not
mean that any will work will done.