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Mass-Energy Equivalence Formula:
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Mass-energy equivalence is a fundamental concept in physics expressed by Einstein's famous equation E = mc². It states that mass and energy are interchangeable and related by the square of the speed of light.
The calculator uses the mass-energy equivalence formula:
Where:
Explanation: This equation demonstrates how much mass would be equivalent to a given amount of energy according to Einstein's theory of relativity.
Details: Understanding mass-energy equivalence is crucial for nuclear physics, particle physics, and cosmology. It explains energy production in stars, nuclear reactions, and the fundamental relationship between matter and energy.
Tips: Enter energy value in joules. The calculator will compute the equivalent mass using the speed of light constant (3 × 10⁸ m/s).
Q1: What is the significance of E = mc²?
A: This equation revolutionized physics by showing that mass and energy are different forms of the same thing, with profound implications for nuclear energy and our understanding of the universe.
Q2: How much energy is in 1 kg of mass?
A: Approximately 9 × 10¹⁶ joules, which is an enormous amount of energy equivalent to about 21 megatons of TNT.
Q3: Why is the speed of light squared in the equation?
A: The c² term acts as a conversion factor between units of mass and energy, reflecting the enormous amount of energy contained in even small amounts of mass.
Q4: Can we convert mass directly to energy?
A: Yes, this occurs in nuclear reactions like fission and fusion, where small amounts of mass are converted to large amounts of energy.
Q5: Is this applicable in everyday life?
A: While the effects are too small to notice in daily chemical reactions, this principle is essential for nuclear power, medical imaging (PET scans), and understanding stellar processes.