Final answer:
The function of matter is not solely to express force, but rather matter is necessary for forces to act. In physics, forces arise from interactions between objects, and energy can affect matter in several ways, such as moving it or causing internal changes.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement 'The function of matter is to express force' is somewhat ambiguous. In physics, force is defined as an interaction between objects, and matter is necessary for forces to act; without matter, there would be nothing to exert a force upon or to experience a force. However, it's not entirely accurate to say that expressing force is the function of matter. Matter has intrinsic properties like mass and volume and can experience various forces, but can also exhibit properties like charge in the case of particles. It might be better to view matter as a medium through which forces manifest.
In physics, forces like the gravitational force are indeed due to the attraction of objects with mass. Newton's third law, which states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction, applies to all forces including external forces acting on a system. This is in line with Essential Knowledge 3.A.3 which asserts a force exerted on an object is the result of interaction with another object. The interaction between two objects is key to understanding how force works.
Moreover, energy is distinct from matter; it can indeed affect matter by moving it or causing internal changes. For example, thermal energy can cause matter to change state, kinetic energy moves objects, and potential energy can be stored in an object's position within a field.