Matter/antimatter collisions is now what bugs me

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of matter and antimatter collisions, particularly focusing on whether these collisions violate the law of conservation of matter and energy. Participants explore theoretical implications, basic principles of physics, and their understanding of energy conservation in the context of annihilation events.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concern that matter/antimatter collisions violate the law of conservation of matter and energy, suggesting that a deeper understanding of multidimensional physics may resolve this issue.
  • Another participant questions how these collisions could prove the conservation law false, prompting further clarification on the principles involved.
  • It is noted that the energy released from matter/antimatter collisions is described by E=mc², indicating a complete conversion of matter to energy.
  • A participant challenges the notion of conservation of matter, stating that there is no such law, and asks for clarification on the conservation of energy during annihilation.
  • One participant expresses confusion about the annihilation process, questioning whether energy is lost or released into the universe.
  • A later reply confirms that energy is released as photons during annihilation, emphasizing that total energy, including rest energy, is conserved.
  • Participants express appreciation for the discussion and clarify that inquiries like these are welcomed and valued within the community.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants exhibit a mix of understanding and confusion regarding the implications of matter/antimatter collisions on conservation laws. While some clarify the principles of energy conservation, others remain uncertain about the basic concepts involved, indicating that the discussion is not fully resolved.

Contextual Notes

There are indications of missing foundational knowledge among some participants, particularly regarding the definitions and implications of conservation laws. The discussion also reflects varying levels of familiarity with the topic, which may influence interpretations of the principles involved.

Amatuer
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First post here so sorry if I got it in the wrong spot. I'd like to say though I am very exited to have found this site. I see some sleepless nights in my very near future :wink:

Matter/antimatter collisions, appear to me, to violate the Law of conservation of matter and energy. I suspect once we understand more about multidimensional physics we shall find the law to hold true. But hey, like my name says I am the amatuer, I also suspect there could be more plausable explantion out there and I just haven't found it.

I turmoiled over the Big Bang for a long time until I found "Inflation" ; which summarily removed my problem with the theory. Matter/antimatter collisions is now what bugs me (partial geek here I guess).
 
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reading the post, my question is why does the collision not prove the law false.
 


Amatuer said:
Matter/antimatter collisions, appear to me, to violate the Law of conservation of matter and energy.
How?

The amount of energy released from the collision of matter and anitmatter is determined by E=mc2, i.e. complete conversion of matter to energy.
 


Amatuer said:
Matter/antimatter collisions, appear to me, to violate the Law of conservation of matter and energy.
What makes you think that such collisions would violate conservation of energy? (There's no such law as conservation of 'matter'.)
 


First thanks for the reply! I guess I'm missing the bassics then. My understanding when Matter/antimatter collide, a complete annihilation occurs. Nothing left. No matter, no energy. Are you telling me the matter is gone but energy is released into the universe?
 


Amatuer said:
Are you telling me the matter is gone but energy is released into the universe?
Yes, that's one possibility. When the particles annihilate, energy is released as photons. The total energy (including rest energy of mass) is always conserved.
 


Doc Al said:
Yes, that's one possibility. When the particles annihilate, energy is released as photons. The total energy (including rest energy of mass) is always conserved.

Well thanks. I was thinking the energy was gone as well.

Thanks for helping a curious amatuer, sorry if I wasted your time.
 


Amatuer said:
Well thanks. I was thinking the energy was gone as well.

Thanks for helping a curious amatuer, sorry if I wasted your time.

You are not wasting our time. We fall all over each other to answer questions such as yours.
 


DaveC426913 said:
You are not wasting our time. We fall all over each other to answer questions such as yours.
:smile: Yeah, what a bunch of geeks, eh?
 

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