Mass difference between charged and uncharged battery - Special Relativity

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SUMMARY

The mass difference between a charged and uncharged AA battery can be calculated using the principles of special relativity. A rechargeable AA battery with a mass of 25.0g can supply 1.20W for 50.0 minutes, resulting in a total energy output of 6480J. The increase in mass due to the stored energy is calculated using the equation Δm = ΔE/c², yielding a mass difference of approximately 7.2 x 10-14 kg. This demonstrates the relationship between energy and mass as outlined in Einstein's theory of relativity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of special relativity concepts, specifically mass-energy equivalence
  • Familiarity with the equations for work and energy (W = Pt, E = mc²)
  • Basic knowledge of kinetic energy and its relation to mass
  • Ability to perform calculations involving scientific notation and unit conversions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of mass-energy equivalence in different physical systems
  • Learn about the principles of special relativity and their applications in modern physics
  • Explore the concept of rest mass versus relativistic mass
  • Investigate practical applications of energy storage and conversion in batteries
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in the principles of energy storage and special relativity, particularly in the context of battery technology and mass-energy calculations.

EnSlavingBlair
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Homework Statement



A rechargeable AA battery with a mass of 25.0g can supply a power of 1.20W for 50.0mins.
What is the difference in mass between a charged and an uncharged battery?

Homework Equations



W = Pt
W = K = gmc^2 - mc^2
where g = 1/(1-(v/c)^2)^(-1/2)
E (total) = gmc^2 = K + E (rest) = K + mc^2

The Attempt at a Solution



W = 1.20 * 3.00x10^3 = 3600J = K

I am unsure of where to go from there, or even if this is the right way to start. The question does not make it clear (for me) if the 25.0g of the battery relates to the rest energy or the charged energy. Assuming it was clear which the mass relates to, I do not know what to use for the velocity in g.

There is also the possibility (in my mind, at least) that in part this is a trick question. That there is no mass difference, as while the battery is not in use the electrons are not moving. But I'm sure that's not what the question means, as it goes on to ask what fraction of the total mass the mass difference is.

Thank you
 
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I think I may have just solved it.

2. Homework Equations

E = W = Pt

Dm = DE/c^2 (where D is delta)

3. The Attempt at a Solution

I read this in a textbook

"Wherever additional energy DE in any form is stored in an object, the rest mass of the object is increased by DE/c^2"
-Paul A. Tiper 1978, Modern Physics, Worth Publishers, Inc. New York

Which I take to mean (in relation to my question)

DE = K = W = Pt = 1.2*5400 = 6480J

As the kinetic energy is the change in energy in the system, allowing DE = W

Dm = DE/c^2 = 6480/(3*10^8)^2 = 7.2*10^-14 kg

I'm fairly sure this is correct, but a second opinion never goes astray :)
 

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