Can someone explain the concept of Mass-Energy Equivalence in simple terms?

AI Thread Summary
Mass-energy equivalence, expressed as E=mc², describes the relationship between mass and energy, indicating that energy differences correspond to mass differences multiplied by the speed of light squared. The discussion highlights confusion around the concept of relativistic momentum and energy, emphasizing that both are influenced by the observer's frame of reference. Momentum, defined as mass times speed, is considered relative because both mass and speed can vary depending on the observer. Additionally, energy is also deemed relative, as it is calculated using the mass and the square of the speed. Understanding these concepts is crucial for grasping the principles of relativity in physics.
skoks
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Homework Statement


My textbook is only confusing me further and I need to understand this for a presentation in front of the class! The chapter is entitled Mass-Energy Equivalence, with sub titles Relativistic Momentum and Relativistic Energy. I don't understand relativity, I'm reading the first part of the unit to understand it now.



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The Attempt at a Solution

 
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Mass-energy equivalence is the formula stating the relationship between energy & mass. Also known as E = mc^2. It states that the difference in Energy is equal to the difference in mass time time the speed of light squared. Wikipedia has a page on it if you search E=mc2.
 
I understand this but I don't understand how momentum can be relative... What is dilated mass?How can energy be relative aswell?
 
skoks said:
I understand this but I don't understand how momentum can be relative... What is dilated mass?How can energy be relative aswell?
momentum is "mass times speed". Since both mass and speed are "relative", how could momentum NOT be? Likewise, energy is "1/2 mass times speed squared" so it also is relative to the viewer.
 

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