If there is a loss of 5.63 x 10-7kg of mass in a nuclear reaction, how many Joules of energy would be released? Recall that c = 3x108 m/s.

Question

A. 

3.92 x 10⁴

B. 

3.92 x 10¹⁰

C. 

5.07 x 10⁷

D. 

5.07 x 10¹⁰

E. 

6.26 x 10^-24

Answer 1

Hello, Sarah,

The definition of a Joule is m²kg/s². We are also familiar with E = mc².

A small amount of mass is converted to energy in this nuclear reaction. If we square the speed of light we get a unit of m²/s². Then if we multiply kg times this value, we'll get m²kg/s², which is Joules.

5.07x10¹⁰ Joules.

Bob