Final answer:
Magnetic force acts through magnetic fields on magnets and moving charges, can be both attractive and repulsive, and is represented by closed-loop field lines. Electrostatic force operates through electric fields on stationary charges, can also be attractive or repulsive, and has field lines that begin and end on charges.
Step-by-step explanation:
The difference between magnetic and electrostatic forces involves a few key concepts. Firstly, magnetic force is exerted through magnetic fields, which can influence magnets and ferromagnetic materials, as well as moving charges, whereas electrostatic force acts via electric fields created by stationary charges. Contrary to some misconceptions, magnetic force can be both attractive and repulsive, just like electrostatic force, depending on the nature of the charges and poles interacting.
Magnetic fields are represented by closed loops, indicating that they extend into space and do not begin or end at a single point. Alternatively, electric fields begin and end on charges, illustrating the directional nature of the force exerted by charges. Importantly, a magnetic force acts on a charge moving at an angle to the magnetic field, but there is no magnetic force on static charges. On the other hand, electrostatic forces can only act on stationary charges or charges in static equilibrium.
In summary, while both forces are field-dependent, their mechanisms, acting entities (stationary vs. moving charges), and field line representations differ significantly.