Excited vs. Ground state masses of atom

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the mass of an excited neon atom following gamma decay, where a gamma-ray of energy 1.630 MeV is emitted. The ground state mass of the neon atom is specified as 19.992 435 u. To find the mass of the excited neon atom, the relationship between energy and mass, specifically Einstein's equation E = mc², is applicable. This formula allows for the conversion of energy into mass units, enabling the calculation of the excited state mass.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Einstein's equation E = mc²
  • Familiarity with atomic mass units (u)
  • Basic knowledge of gamma decay processes
  • Concept of energy-mass equivalence
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  • Study the principles of gamma decay and its implications
  • Explore calculations involving energy and mass conversion
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Students in nuclear physics, physicists studying atomic structures, and anyone interested in the principles of energy-mass equivalence in atomic processes.

danok
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1. In a certain gamma decay process, an excited neon atom emits a gamma-ray that has an energy of 1.630 MeV. The neon atom in the ground state has a mass of 19.992 435 u. What is the mass of the excited neon atom?



2. I am pretty lost here. There must be a formula relating these energies to masses somewhere, but I do not know it.
 
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Try E = mc2.
 

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