Exploring the Mystery of Energy Released in Nuclear Explosions

In summary, the conversation discusses interesting data about a new heavy particle of 750 GeV and its energy being equal to mass times the velocity of light squared. It also mentions that a similar concept applies to nuclear explosions and questions whether photons released during the explosion contribute to the calculated energy. The article cited suggests that a fifth fundamental force may be at play in the behavior of this particle.
  • #1
thetexan
266
11
I'm reading about the interesting data that suggests a new heavy particle about 750 GeV. It talks about the energy being the mass times the velocity of light squared and is indicated by the two photons as the particles decay.

I guess it's the same with this and a nuclear explosion which brought up this question as to energy released...

In the case of a nuclear explosion...when the explosion takes place and the energy is released do the photons released (very bright explosion) account for any of the calculated energy? Since photons have no mass are they considered part of the energy released when calculating it?

tex
 
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  • #2
Could you cite the article you are reading?

Photons have no rest mass. That doesn't mean they have no mass equivalency.
So, yes, during a nuclear explosion, a great deal of the mass is converted to energy in the form of photon - thus preserving mass/energy conservation.
 

1. What is nuclear energy and how is it released in explosions?

Nuclear energy is the energy that holds the particles in the nucleus of an atom together. In nuclear explosions, this energy is released through a process called nuclear fission, where the nucleus of an atom splits into two smaller nuclei, releasing a large amount of energy in the process.

2. How does nuclear fission occur in a nuclear explosion?

Nuclear fission in a nuclear explosion is initiated by bombarding a large, unstable atom (such as uranium or plutonium) with a neutron. This causes the atom to split into two smaller atoms, releasing more neutrons and a large amount of energy. These released neutrons then collide with other atoms, causing a chain reaction and releasing even more energy.

3. What factors affect the amount of energy released in a nuclear explosion?

The amount of energy released in a nuclear explosion is influenced by several factors, including the type and amount of fissile material used, the design of the nuclear device, and the efficiency of the fission process. Additionally, external factors such as atmospheric conditions and the presence of surrounding structures can also impact the energy released.

4. How does the energy released in a nuclear explosion compare to other sources of energy?

The energy released in a nuclear explosion is significantly greater than the energy released in most other forms of energy production. For example, the energy released in a nuclear explosion is millions of times more powerful than that released in a chemical explosion.

5. What are the potential applications of nuclear energy and nuclear explosions?

Nuclear energy has a wide range of potential applications, including electricity production, propulsion for spacecraft, and medical treatments. However, the use of nuclear explosions for energy production or military purposes is heavily regulated due to safety and ethical concerns.

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