In accounting, how is an intangible asset different from a tangible asset?

Intangible assets are characterized by the absence of physical substance, which distinguishes them from tangible assets that have a physical presence and can be seen or touched. Tangible assets include items such as machinery, buildings, and equipment, which have a concrete form and can be physically utilized within the business. On the other hand, intangible assets include elements like patents, trademarks, copyrights, and goodwill; these are valuable to the business yet cannot be physically handled.

This distinction is crucial in accounting because it affects how these assets are valued, recorded, and amortized on financial statements. Understanding this difference is fundamental for accurately assessing a company’s financial health and operational capabilities, as both types of assets contribute differently to the value of the business.