# Thinking about classical physics equations as cause and effect - Ali Alqaraghuli, a systems engineer at NASA, argues in his video "[You don't really understand physics](https://youtu.be/a6Xsdoowtrc?si=fIS1bZOJ7rnqQ4tD)" that classical physics equations aren't taught in a way that promotes real understanding. He also discusses [[Systems]] and [[Systems Engineering]] in some of his other videos. - A key idea in classical mechanics and electromagnetics is that on a macro scale, events happen because something causes them—it's all about cause and effect. - For example, $V = IR$ (Ohm’s Law) is often presented as a static equation, but it's clearer when thought of in terms of cause and effect: $I = \frac{V}{R}$. - This format aligns with the idea of a function, where the current $I$ (effect) is caused by the voltage $V$ divided by the resistance $R$ (cause). - The current exists because a voltage is applied, while the resistance slows down the flow of that current. - Similarly, Newton's second law, $F = ma$, is better understood as $a = \frac{F}{m}$, where acceleration $a$ is the effect of the applied force $F$ on the mass $m$.