Mass to energy equivalence question

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on calculating the mass equivalent of 17.6 MeV of energy from a fusion reaction. The equation E=mc² is referenced, with 931.5 MeV identified as the rest energy of 1 atomic mass unit (amu). Participants express concerns about the clarity and accuracy of the original solution attempt, particularly regarding unit conversions and the application of the equation. They suggest that using ratios based on known energy values is a valid approach but emphasize the importance of proper unit handling for a comprehensive understanding. Overall, the conversation highlights the need for careful application of physics principles in energy-mass equivalence calculations.
eXmag
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Homework Statement



An unknown amount of mass lost from a fusion reaction is converted to energy. Determine the amount of mass equal to 17.6 MeV of energy.

Homework Equations



E=mc2?

The Attempt at a Solution



17.6=m(931.5)
m=0.01889u
Not sure if this is correct
 
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eXmag said:

Homework Statement



An unknown amount of mass lost from a fusion reaction is converted to energy. Determine the amount of mass equal to 17.6 MeV of energy.

Homework Equations



E=mc2?

The Attempt at a Solution



17.6=m(931.5)
m=0.01889u
Not sure if this is correct

Where did "931.5" come from? √(931.5) = 30.52, I don't recognize this as being c ...
 
rude man said:
Where did "931.5" come from? √(931.5) = 30.52, I don't recognize this as being c ...

931.5 MeV is the rest energy of 1 amu of mass. The 'attempt at a solution' wasn't very well explained. To say the least.
 
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Dick said:
931.5 MeV is the rest energy of 1 amu of mass. The 'attempt at a solution' wasn't very well explained. To say the least.

Yeah, so looks like E = mc2 is irrelevant & we have just a ratio of energies and finding out how many gm to 1 a.m.u.?
 
rude man said:
Yeah, so looks like E = mc2 is irrelevant & we have just a ratio of energies and finding out how many gm to 1 a.m.u.?

The easy way to solve it is to use 1amu*c^2=931.5 MeV (because you've memorized it) and solve it using ratios. That's how the OP got the right answer if u=amu. But the OP butchered the units and I know the OP doesn't know whether it's right or wrong. That's not good. Just using E=mc^2 and paying some attention to units would be much better. It would show understanding. It's hardly irrelevant. I was just pointing out where the 931.5 came from.
 
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