What is the potential nuclear energy in a human body?

In summary, the amount of potential nuclear or atomic energy in the human body is determined by the mass of fissionable material it contains, and can be calculated using Einstein's formula E=M*Csquared. For a 120 KG body, the total energy released would be 120 X (300,000 X 300,000) Joules if all mass was converted to energy.
  • #1
mistersmith
5
0
Here is a newbie, goofball question. How much potential nuclear or atomic energy is there in the human body? I know a little about the energy released in a nuclear bomb. I know that this is not applicable to the human body. But if, one were able to release the "nuclear binding energy" in each atom in the human body, what would that energy be? Do I need to restructure that question?
 
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  • #2
Suggestion regarding restructuring the question; maybe if all the elements in the body lighter than iron were fused and all those heavier were fissioned?
 
  • #3
If you are asking how much atomic energy in the body in the form of fissionable material you would have to know what amount of that material the body contains. If you just want to know the total conversion figure (a fission bomb only releases about 3% and a fusion bomb about 7%) then you simply use Einstein's famous formula - E=M*Csquared.

But first you have to understand the formula and the terms it works with. to wit...

E= energy in Joules One Joule is the aproximate equivalent of dropping a medium sized textbook to the floor from chest height.

M= Mass in Kilograms

Csquared= the speed of light in kilometers / second squared which is 300,000 KM/sec squared.

So what you would get for a 120 KG body is 120 X (300,000 X 300,000) Joules of total energy released if the mass is totally converted to energy.
 

1. What is nuclear energy and how is it generated?

Nuclear energy is the energy released by splitting atoms of uranium through a process called nuclear fission. This energy is then used to heat water, which produces steam that drives turbines to generate electricity.

2. What are the advantages of using nuclear energy?

Some of the advantages of nuclear energy include its low carbon emissions, high energy efficiency, and reliability. It also requires less land area compared to other renewable energy sources and has a relatively low operating cost.

3. What are the potential risks of using nuclear energy?

The main risk associated with nuclear energy is the potential for accidents or disasters, such as a meltdown or radiation leaks. There is also the issue of nuclear waste disposal, which can be harmful to the environment and human health if not properly managed.

4. How does nuclear energy compare to other sources of energy?

Nuclear energy is a relatively clean source of energy compared to fossil fuels, which produce large amounts of greenhouse gases. It is also more reliable than renewable energy sources like wind and solar, as nuclear power plants can operate continuously and provide a steady supply of electricity.

5. Is nuclear energy renewable?

No, nuclear energy is not considered a renewable energy source because it relies on finite resources of uranium. However, with advancements in technology, it is possible to recycle and reuse nuclear fuel, making it a more sustainable option in the long run.

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