Is there any macroscopic example for the "mass excess"?

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of mass excess in nuclear physics and whether there are any macroscopic examples where it is non-negligible. It is mentioned that the mass excess can be nearly 1% of the total energy and that the electromagnetic binding energy is less than 0.01%. The conversation also touches on the measurement of mass excess in the case of electromagnetic binding.
  • #1
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Hello

In nuclear physics, the mass excess is caused by the nuclear binding energy.

Question: is there any macroscopic example where the "mass excess" is non-negligible?

Thank you for your time.

Regards.
 
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  • #2
A macroscopic amount of iron? Its mass is nearly 1% smaller than a corresponding amount of hydrogen and neutrons.

The nuclear binding energy can be nearly 1% of the total energy (ignoring the sign). The electromagnetic binding energy is less than 0.01%, and chemical binding energies in molecules are of the order of 10-9.
 
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  • #3
Hello

Thank you for your answer (and good joke).

So, has the mass excess been measured for the case of EM binding?

Thank you for your time.

Regards
 
  • #4
Sort of, as part of the nuclear binding energy.

Some experiments should be able to see the binding energy of electrons, but I’m not aware of dedicated measurements.
You can probably calculate it based on published results.
 

1. What is the concept of "mass excess" in science?

"Mass excess" refers to the difference between the actual mass of a particle or system and its predicted mass based on its constituent parts. This excess mass is due to the binding energy holding the particles or system together.

2. Can you give an example of "mass excess" in macroscopic objects?

One example of "mass excess" in a macroscopic object is a nucleus of an atom. The mass of a nucleus is always less than the sum of the masses of its individual protons and neutrons, due to the strong nuclear force binding them together.

3. How is "mass excess" related to Einstein's famous equation, E=mc²?

Einstein's equation, E=mc², shows the relationship between energy and mass. The "mass excess" is a result of the conversion of mass to energy through the binding energy of particles or systems, as described by this equation.

4. Is "mass excess" a measurable quantity?

Yes, "mass excess" is a measurable quantity and can be calculated using precise mass measurements of individual particles or systems and their constituent parts.

5. Can "mass excess" be observed in everyday life?

While "mass excess" is not directly observable in everyday life, its effects can be seen in nuclear reactions, such as nuclear fusion in stars, and in nuclear power plants. It is also an important concept in understanding the stability of matter and the formation of elements in the universe.

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