Need a practical example of E=mc^2 with real numbers

In summary, the equation E=MC2 represents the relationship between energy, mass, and the speed of light. When expressed with real numbers, it can be used to calculate the energy of a given number of hydrogen atoms. The energy is measured in Joules (J), with the mass of the hydrogen atom expressed in kilograms (kg). The speed of light, measured in meters per second, is represented by the value 299 792 458 m/s.
  • #1
GeorgeW
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Need a practical example of E=MC2 with real numbers

Ok, so I understand that Energy = Mass of an Object * Speed of light square, if we must convert this to numbers, how can this be presented for let’s say 1,000 hydrogen atoms?

Energy = 1.008 (Hydrogen mass) * 1,000 (hydrogen atoms) * speed of light * speed of light
Energy = 1.008 * 1,000 * 299 792 458 m / s * 299 792 458 m / s

The first 2 parts are ok, but what about the speed of light, that is miles per second, is there a number there that removed the m/s so we can calculate it?

And what about E, what kind of units result in E?
 
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  • #2
Energy in SI units is Joules (J). 1 J = 1 kg⋅m2/s2. Your formula is incorrect because you did not express the mass of the hydrogen atom in kg. You need to look that up. Note that in your formula so far you have the m2/s2. BTW m in m/s stands for "meters" not miles. Miles per second is sometimes written as mi/s or spelled out entirely to avoid confusion.
 

1. How does E=mc^2 relate to real world examples?

E=mc^2 is a fundamental equation in physics that relates the amount of energy (E) an object has to its mass (m) and the speed of light (c). This equation has been confirmed through numerous experiments and is used in practical applications, such as nuclear power and nuclear weapons.

2. Can you provide a specific example of E=mc^2 with real numbers?

Sure, let's take the example of a nuclear power plant. In this case, the mass (m) of the uranium atoms is converted into energy (E) through the process of nuclear fission. The speed of light (c) is a constant value of approximately 3 x 10^8 m/s. Using the equation E=mc^2, we can calculate the amount of energy produced by a given mass of uranium.

3. How does E=mc^2 explain the immense energy released in nuclear reactions?

E=mc^2 explains the concept of mass-energy equivalence, meaning that a small amount of mass can be converted into a large amount of energy. In nuclear reactions, the nucleus of an atom is split, and a small amount of the nucleus's mass is converted into a large amount of energy according to the E=mc^2 equation.

4. Is E=mc^2 only applicable to nuclear reactions?

No, E=mc^2 is a general equation that applies to all forms of energy, not just nuclear energy. It can be used to calculate the amount of energy released in any type of reaction or process where mass is converted into energy, such as chemical reactions or even the burning of fossil fuels.

5. What are the practical implications of E=mc^2?

The practical implications of E=mc^2 are vast and have had a significant impact on our understanding of the universe. It has led to advancements in nuclear energy, nuclear medicine, and even space travel. E=mc^2 also plays a crucial role in the development of nuclear weapons and the study of the origin and evolution of the universe.

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