Entery level Mass-energy equivalence questions

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around mass-energy equivalence in the context of a proton colliding with a stationary nucleus, resulting in the formation of two alpha particles. Participants are exploring the calculations related to energy release and mass equivalence during this nuclear interaction.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the conservation of mass and energy, with some attempting to relate kinetic energy changes to mass equivalence. There are questions about how to mathematically approach the calculations, particularly regarding the binding energy and the rest mass of the nucleus.

Discussion Status

Some participants have expressed confusion about the mathematical aspects of the problem, while others have provided guidance on using conservation principles. There is acknowledgment of the need to consider both kinetic and rest mass energies in the calculations. The discussion reflects a mix of understanding and uncertainty, particularly regarding the second question.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of homework guidelines, which may limit the information they can use or the methods they can apply. There is an emphasis on understanding the concepts rather than simply arriving at numerical answers.

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Homework Statement


The diagram shows a proton moving with Ek of (0.178)(10-12)J towards a stationary nucleus X. The proton hits X and is absorbed.

The resulting nucleus splits into two alpha particles, which move off in the directions shown with equal Ek of (1.481)(10-12)J

1. Calculate the mass equivalence of the net energy release during the collision.
2. Calculate the rest mass of the nucleus X. The mass of a proton is (1.673)(10-27) kg and the mass of an alpha particle is (6.645)(10-27)kg


Homework Equations


E=mc2

The Attempt at a Solution


First question I have no idea how to do that.

second question, I simply added the proton mass + alpha particle mass (which is a wrong answer since energy is used for binding energy)

I sort of get the concepts but can't do them mathematically...
Please help me step by step.
Answers:
1. 3.09X10-29
2. 11.6X10-27
 
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The guiding principle is mass/energy conservation.

initial (rest mass energy + kinetic energy)= final (rest mass energy + kinetic energy)

Question 1 is just concerned with the increase of kinetic energy expressed as a mass equivalence.
Question 2 just use the above equation. Be careful to include all rest masses and kinetic energies and express them all in the same unit.
 
Sorry, I really do not know how to do these questions...
 
For question 1 find the difference between the initial kinetic energy and the final kinetic energy. Then use E=mc^2 to convert energy to a mass equivalent.
 
Thank you I've finally got and understood the first question.
I still don't know how to solve the second question... :/
 
The increase in kinetic energy must have come from a reduction in rest mass. In other words the mass of the two alphas is less than the mass of X and the proton. You have values for the rest mass of the alphas and the proton and the mass equivalent of the kinetic energy gained.
 

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