A question on converting MeV to GeV

  • Context: Undergrad 
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on converting binding energy values from MeV to GeV, specifically for uranium-235. The user initially misinterpreted the graph, which indicated a binding energy of 7.6 MeV per nucleon. The correct conversion involves recognizing that the total binding energy is calculated by multiplying the per nucleon value by the number of nucleons (235), resulting in 1.8 GeV. The confusion arose from the misunderstanding of units and the multiplication factor.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of nuclear physics concepts, particularly binding energy.
  • Familiarity with unit conversions between MeV and GeV.
  • Knowledge of uranium-235's nuclear composition (number of nucleons).
  • Basic mathematical skills for performing unit conversions and calculations.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the concept of binding energy per nucleon in nuclear physics.
  • Learn about unit conversions between MeV and GeV, including common pitfalls.
  • Study the properties of uranium-235 and its significance in nuclear reactions.
  • Explore graphical representations of nuclear binding energy and their interpretations.
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in nuclear physics, physicists working with nuclear energy, and anyone involved in scientific calculations related to binding energy and unit conversions.

funnybunny
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hi - I'm stuck on a question...
use the graph to calculate the binding energy of uranium 235 nucleus:

the graph gave 7.6MeV

i need to give my answers to GeV - and the mark scheme told me to 7.6Mev x 235 to give 1.8GeV??

i thought you just multiplied by 10^3.

what happened?

thanks!
 
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funnybunny said:
hi - I'm stuck on a question...
use the graph to calculate the binding energy of uranium 235 nucleus:

the graph gave 7.6MeV

i need to give my answers to GeV - and the mark scheme told me to 7.6Mev x 235 to give 1.8GeV??

i thought you just multiplied by 10^3.

what happened?

thanks!
Welcome to PF funnybunny,

Are you sure that the graph didn't show binding energy per nucleon? :wink:
 
Hootenanny said:
Welcome to PF funnybunny,

Are you sure that the graph didn't show binding energy per nucleon? :wink:

yeh..it did...woops
but even if you multiplied it by 235, giving the total binding energy, it's still in MeV

i did 7.6x10^6 x 235 x 10^3 which gave 1.8x10^12...which is waay too big
 
Hootenanny said:
Welcome to PF funnybunny,

Are you sure that the graph didn't show binding energy per nucleon? :wink:

nvm - I'm such a klutz! thanks!
i got the answer
 

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