Mass in MeV/c2 of a particle with a mass of 4.032u

In summary, to find the mass of a particle in MeV/c2, you can convert the mass in atomic mass units (u) to kilograms, then use the formula E=mc2 to calculate the energy in joules. From there, you can convert to MeV and add /c2 to the answer to get the mass in MeV/c2.
  • #1
jsmith613
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0

Homework Statement


A particle has a mass of 4.032u. What is its mass in MeV/c2


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


4.032u = 4.032 * 1.66*10-27 = 6.69*10-27 kg
Energy equivalent, E = mc2: = (6.69*10-27)*(3*108)2 = 6.02 *10-10J

J→eV (divide by 1.6∗10-19) )=3.76∗109 eV=3760 MeV

How do I find it for MeV/c2
 
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  • #2
1MeV/c^2 = 1e6*1.6e-19/9e16 kg = 1.7e-30 kg

so 1 = [1MeV/c^2]/1.7e-30 kg = 1.7e-30 kg/[1MeV/c^2]

multiply your answer, 6.69*10-27 kg, by the right factor above?
 
  • #3
jsmith613 said:

Homework Statement


A particle has a mass of 4.032u. What is its mass in MeV/c2


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


4.032u = 4.032 * 1.66*10-27 = 6.69*10-27 kg
Energy equivalent, E = mc2: = (6.69*10-27)*(3*108)2 = 6.02 *10-10J

J→eV (divide by 1.6∗10-19) )=3.76∗109 eV=3760 MeV

How do I find it for MeV/c2
You tack on /c2 to the answer you found: 3760 MeV/c2.
 
  • #4
vela said:
You tack on /c2 to the answer you found: 3760 MeV/c2.

why is this true?
 
  • #5
E = mc2 ⇒ m = E/c2 = (3760 MeV)/c2. You just don't actually plug in a value for c. Instead you make it part of the units.
 

FAQ: Mass in MeV/c2 of a particle with a mass of 4.032u

What is energy mass equivalence?

Energy mass equivalence, also known as Einstein's famous equation E=mc^2, is the concept that energy and mass are interchangeable and can be converted into one another. This means that a small amount of mass can be converted into a large amount of energy, and vice versa.

Who discovered energy mass equivalence?

The concept of energy mass equivalence was first proposed by Albert Einstein in his theory of special relativity in 1905. However, it was not until 1907 that he explicitly stated the famous equation E=mc^2.

How is energy mass equivalence relevant in modern science?

Energy mass equivalence is essential in modern science and is the basis for many important technologies such as nuclear power and nuclear weapons. It also plays a crucial role in understanding the behavior of particles at high speeds and in the study of the origins of the universe.

Can energy mass equivalence be observed in everyday life?

While the concept of energy mass equivalence may seem abstract, it can, in fact, be observed in everyday life. One example is nuclear power plants, where a small amount of mass is converted into a large amount of energy through nuclear reactions. Additionally, the sun's energy is produced through the conversion of mass into energy through nuclear fusion.

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

Energy mass equivalence is a fundamental component of Einstein's theory of special relativity. This theory states that the laws of physics remain the same for all observers in uniform motion and that the speed of light is constant for all observers. The concept of energy mass equivalence is derived from these principles and has been confirmed through numerous experiments and observations.

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