Conservation of energy relativity problem

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem related to the conservation of energy in the context of relativity, specifically involving the conversion of mass into energy and its application to gravitational potential energy. The original poster seeks assistance in determining how much mass can be raised to a height of 96 meters based on energy derived from a given mass.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of conservation of energy principles, questioning the relationship between mass-energy equivalence and gravitational potential energy. There are attempts to clarify the relevant equations and their application to the problem.

Discussion Status

The conversation includes various interpretations of the equations involved, with some participants providing guidance on using mass-energy equivalence. The original poster expresses uncertainty but later indicates a realization of the approach after reviewing relevant material.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of confusion regarding the appropriate equations to use, particularly distinguishing between kinetic energy and gravitational potential energy, as well as the implications of mass-energy equivalence in the context of the problem.

hibiscus23
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Hi could someone please help me with this question. I don't know where to start. :rolleyes:

A certain amount of energy is obtained from conversion of 5.00 grams of mass. How much mass could this energy raise to a height of 96 m?
 
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Hi,

Use conservation of energy. The energy produced in the conversion (which you can caluculate by the most famous equation in physics) is equal to the gravitational potential energy. The only thing you don't know is the mass of the object that is raised to 96m.
 
um...

so it's 1/2mv^2 = mgh?
how would i get v?

If i use conservation of energy, then I don't have to use E=mc^2?

:confused:
 
You use mc^2=Mgh. mc^2 is still energy.
 
hibiscus23 said:
so it's 1/2mv^2

Is that the most famous equation in all of physics?

Nooooooo

C'mon, think Einstein.
 
thanks...i actually realized how to do it when i looked through the chapter again...
 

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