Unraveling the Mystery of E=mc2: Speed of Light

AI Thread Summary
The equation E=mc² uses "c" to denote the speed of light in a vacuum, which is a constant at 299,792,458 meters per second. When applying this equation, scientists always refer to this vacuum speed, regardless of the medium through which light may travel. The speed of light can change in different materials, but this variation does not affect the fundamental relationship expressed in the equation. Therefore, E=mc² remains valid and consistent when using the speed of light in a vacuum. Understanding this distinction clarifies any confusion regarding the application of the equation in different contexts.
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i know this might be a dumb question but it was in my head and i would love to hear an answer,

so the famous E=mc2..e obviously energy, m mass, c is the speed of light,
but what speed of light? we all know that c is constant at vacuum but it changes when it goes through another medium like air or glass or whatever it is, so my question was when scientists actually apply this equation...what c do they use? like do they use c of air for example or d they only use the normal c which is 299,792,458 metres per second?
 
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"c" always refers to "speed of light in a vacuum"
so there's no confusion here.
 
I think it's easist first to watch a short vidio clip I find these videos very relaxing to watch .. I got to thinking is this being done in the most efficient way? The sand has to be suspended in the water to move it to the outlet ... The faster the water , the more turbulance and the sand stays suspended, so it seems to me the rule of thumb is the hose be aimed towards the outlet at all times .. Many times the workers hit the sand directly which will greatly reduce the water...

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