The discussion revolves around converting the mass of a particle from atomic mass units (u) to MeV/c². The original poster presents a mass of 4.032u and seeks to understand how to express this mass in the energy equivalent unit of MeV/c².
Some participants have provided calculations and conversions, while others are questioning the rationale behind certain steps, particularly the inclusion of /c² in the final expression. The discussion is ongoing, with various interpretations being explored.
There is a focus on unit conversions and the relationship between mass and energy, with participants referencing the energy-mass equivalence principle. The original poster's inquiry indicates a need for clarity on unit representation in physics.
You tack on /c2 to the answer you found: 3760 MeV/c2.jsmith613 said:Homework Statement
A particle has a mass of 4.032u. What is its mass in MeV/c2
Homework Equations
The Attempt at a Solution
4.032u = 4.032 * 1.66*10-27 = 6.69*10-27 kg
Energy equivalent, E = mc2: = (6.69*10-27)*(3*108)2 = 6.02 *10-10J
J→eV (divide by 1.6∗10-19) )=3.76∗109 eV=3760 MeV
How do I find it for MeV/c2
vela said:You tack on /c2 to the answer you found: 3760 MeV/c2.