What Determines the Kinetic Energy of a Nucleus?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the definition and factors influencing the kinetic energy of a nucleus, specifically focusing on protons. Participants explore the equations and concepts related to kinetic energy in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asks for a comprehensive definition of kinetic energy for nuclei, seeking to understand the factors and equations involved.
  • Another participant states that kinetic energy is defined by mass and speed, applicable to any particle.
  • A different participant provides a specific equation for kinetic energy in terms of momentum, suggesting KE=\sqrt{p^2+m^2}-m.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present different aspects of kinetic energy without reaching a consensus on a singular definition or approach. Multiple viewpoints on the topic remain evident.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not clarify assumptions regarding the definitions of mass or speed in the context of nuclear physics, nor does it resolve the implications of the provided equation.

Deepak247
Messages
75
Reaction score
0
How do you define (by all means) the kinetic energy of a nuclei (let's say of proton)?

What are the factors, equations, and other things involved?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Kinetic energy is defined by mass and speed, no matter what the particle is.
 
ok...
 
For given momentum p, [tex]KE=\sqrt{p^2+m^2}-m[/tex].
 
OK thanks
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
4K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • · Replies 29 ·
Replies
29
Views
3K