1. What is Mass-Energy Conversion?

Definition: This calculator computes the energy equivalent of a given mass using Einstein's famous equation E=mc².

Purpose: It demonstrates the relationship between mass and energy, fundamental to nuclear physics and relativity.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses Einstein's mass-energy equivalence formula:

Where:

• \( E \) — Energy (Joules, J)
• \( m \) — Mass (kilograms, kg)
• \( c \) — Speed of light (299,792,458 m/s, default 300,000,000 m/s for simplicity)

Explanation: The energy content of mass is calculated by multiplying the mass by the square of the speed of light.

3. Importance of Mass-Energy Conversion

Details: This principle explains the enormous energy potential contained within matter, underlying nuclear power and the energy output of stars.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the mass in kilograms and the speed of light in m/s (default provided). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the speed of light squared in the equation?
A: The squared term reflects the fundamental relationship between space and time in relativity, resulting in the enormous energy contained in mass.

Q2: What's a typical mass value to try?
A: Try 1 kg (yields 9×10¹⁶ J) or 0.001 kg (1 gram) to see the enormous energy in small amounts of matter.

Q3: Can this energy be practically extracted?
A: Only in nuclear reactions where a small fraction of mass is converted to energy (0.1-0.3% in fission, up to 0.7% in fusion).

Q4: Why don't we see this energy in everyday objects?
A: The energy remains bound as mass in chemical reactions. Only nuclear processes can release significant portions of it.

Q5: How does this relate to atomic bombs?
A: Nuclear weapons convert a small amount of matter (a few grams) directly into energy, resulting in massive explosions.