Can someone explain mass energy conservation?

[matt_crouch]

Im confused with mass energy conservation. i get that mass and energy are conserved but i don't understand how mass can become energy and visa versa.. can anyone help explain it to me in another way?

 

[LURCH]

Good conversation about that very topic under way right here:

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=275930

 

[tiny-tim]

Welcome to PF!

Im confused with mass energy conservation. i get that mass and energy are conserved but i don't understand how mass can become energy and visa versa.. can anyone help explain it to me in another way?

Hi matt_crouch! Welcome to PF!

An example: in nuclear fusion, two masses combine to a lesser mass and give off energy.

The mass-plus-energy is the same before as after.

 

[matt_crouch]

But what i find confussing is how can someone get heavier as they gain energy. for example someone going up in a lift gains potential energy and mass?

are they gaining matter? or can energy be matter.. if u see what I am getting it. how can a gain in energy cause a gain in kilograms.

im probably just makeing it more confusing =]

 

[tiny-tim]

The work-energy theorem still applies …

the special relativistic increase in mass due to velocity is balanced by the work done in increasing the speed

and the general relativistic increase in mass due to lower gravitational potential is balanced by the work done by gravity.

 

[matt_crouch]

ahh ok i get it.. i think cheers for the help :D