Gravity After Mass Conversion to Energy - Layman's Guide

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In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between mass, energy, and gravity. It is mentioned that mass and energy are essentially the same thing and that gravity is dependent on the "mass-energy tensor" rather than just mass. It is also stated that there would be no difference in the gravitational field if a source has either mass or an equivalent amount of energy.
  • #1
teroenza
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Hello all,
I have am just a curious layman wondering qualitatively what happens to somethings gravity (field?) if some or all of it's mass is converted to energy.
Thank you
-Ter

P.s. Sorry if this is the wrong section for this.
 
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  • #2


No, because mass and energy are basically the same thing. Gravity depends on the "mass-energy tensor" not just mass.
 
  • #3


To expand on what HallsofIvy said, there would be no difference in gravitational field with a source mass, and a gravitational field with an equivalent source energy (If you use e=mcc to have equal energy and mass). Hope this helps,

V
 
  • #4


Thank you both very much.
 

FAQ: Gravity After Mass Conversion to Energy - Layman's Guide

What is mass conversion to energy?

Mass conversion to energy, also known as mass-energy equivalence, is the concept that mass and energy are interchangeable and can be converted into one another. This is described by Albert Einstein's famous equation, E=mc2, where E represents energy, m represents mass, and c represents the speed of light.

How does mass conversion to energy relate to gravity?

Mass and energy are related by gravity through Einstein's theory of general relativity. According to this theory, massive objects create a "curvature" in space-time, which is what we experience as gravity. The more massive an object is, the stronger its gravitational pull.

How does the conversion of mass to energy affect gravity?

When mass is converted to energy, the total mass of the object decreases. This means that the object's gravitational pull also decreases since gravity is directly proportional to mass. However, the effect of this change in gravity is usually negligible in everyday situations.

Can mass be converted to energy and vice versa?

Yes, mass can be converted to energy and vice versa. This process occurs naturally in nuclear reactions, where a small amount of mass is converted to a large amount of energy. However, the reverse process of converting energy back into mass is not as easily achievable with current technology.

How does mass conversion to energy relate to the theory of relativity?

The theory of relativity, specifically the theory of special relativity, is the foundation for the concept of mass conversion to energy. This theory states that the laws of physics are the same for all observers in uniform motion, and the speed of light is constant for all observers. Einstein's famous equation, E=mc2, is a consequence of this theory and shows the relationship between mass and energy.

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