

I think it’s simple enough without even using analogies to explain. The unit Watt is Joules per second. Multiply by units of time and you get the total units of energy in Joules. Watt and Watt Hour are just that with without the additional units showing or being simplified.

It disappeared now. When COVID hit I upped my contribution just to max out when the market was at a low.
The only way for the 401k to disappear entirely is if the entire economy is royally, never before seen fucked and completely collapses. At that point retirement if probably not a possibility anyways.
Any other situation you’re essentially ‘buying the dip’ and will see the returns years from now. Although if you’re looking to retire anytime in the near future it will likely be a huge hit on what you can take out.