Mass lost in chemical reactions?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between mass and energy in chemical reactions, specifically referencing Einstein's mass-energy equivalence principle. When burning one kilogram of coal, approximately 40 million joules of energy is released, resulting in a mass loss of about 2.0 × 10-26 kg. Participants explore the implications of this mass loss and the number of carbon atoms required to account for it. The conversation highlights the historical misconception of mass conservation in chemical reactions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Einstein's mass-energy equivalence (E=mc2)
  • Basic knowledge of chemical reactions and energy release
  • Familiarity with atomic mass and mole calculations
  • Concept of energy units, specifically joules
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate mass loss in various chemical reactions using E=mc2
  • Explore the implications of mass-energy equivalence in nuclear reactions
  • Learn about the mole concept and its application in chemical equations
  • Investigate historical perspectives on mass conservation in chemistry
USEFUL FOR

Students studying chemistry, educators teaching chemical principles, and anyone interested in the fundamental concepts of mass-energy relationships in physical sciences.

jlp
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Homework Statement



In chemical reactions, when energy is released, mass is lost according to Einstein’s formula just as it is for nuclear energy (though the amounts lost are so small that for centuries scientists thought that mass was conserved). When a kilogram of coal is burned, it releases about 40 million joules of energy.

a. What amount of mass is lost?
b. How many carbon atoms would it take to match the amount of mass that is lost?

Homework Equations



mass = 2.0 × 10- 26 kg
1H + Energy n + e+ + v ----> is this a formula that needs to be used?


The Attempt at a Solution



I am so lost...:( can anyone help!?
 
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jlp said:


Homework Equations



mass = 2.0 × 10- 26 kg
1H + Energy n + e+ + v ----> is this a formula that needs to be used?



How is energy and mass related? You certainly remember Einstein's famous equation.

ehild
 

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