Converting Energy into Matter: Is it Possible?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the possibility of converting energy into matter, exploring theoretical and experimental perspectives. Participants examine concepts related to energy-matter equivalence, particularly in the context of high-energy physics and particle interactions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes the equivalence of energy and mass as described by E=mc² and questions whether there are known methods to convert energy into matter.
  • Another participant mentions that high-energy particle accelerators are used to observe processes where energy is converted into particles, indicating that some of these particles are similar to those found in normal matter.
  • A different participant suggests that when an atom absorbs a photon, its rest mass increases, questioning if this aligns with the original inquiry about energy-to-matter conversion.
  • One participant describes pair production as a known process where energy is converted into matter, specifically when a high-energy photon creates an electron-positron pair near a nucleus.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the mechanisms and implications of energy conversion into matter. While some acknowledge specific processes like pair production, others remain uncertain about the broader question of energy-to-matter conversion.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding the definitions of energy and matter, as well as the specific conditions under which these conversions occur. The conversation does not resolve the complexities involved in these processes.

Jake
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E=mc2, so we can get energy from matter. However, is there any known way, theoreticall or otherwise, to convert energy into MATTER? Because so far I haven't heard of any.
 
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One of the main things physicsists do with high energy particle accelerators is to observe the processes via which energy (of motion) is converted into particles (matter). Most of the particles created this way are fairly exotic, but a few of them are the same as in normal matter.
 
Jake said:
E=mc2, so we can get energy from matter. However, is there any known way, theoreticall or otherwise, to convert energy into MATTER? Because so far I haven't heard of any.
I'm not sure what this means.

However if an atom absorbs a photon the rest mass will increase. Is that what you're looking for?

Pete
 
There is a well known process where energy is converted into matter, called pair production. It occurs when a high energy photon (gamma ray > 1.022 Mev) passes near a nucleus (needed for momentum conservation) and splits into an electron-positron pair. For much higher energies, other pairs are possible.
 

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