Exam-style question
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What does the mass‑energy equivalence principle state about the relationship between mass and energy?.
- A.Mass can be converted into energy according to E=mc^2
- B.Energy can be converted into mass according to E=mc^2
- C.Mass and energy are unrelated
- D.Mass is a form of potential energy
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- Mass can be converted into energy according to E=mc^2
Explanation
Why this works
Formula/rule: E = mc^2. Substitution: m = 1 kg, c = 3.0×10^8 m s⁻¹.
Working: E = 1 kg × (3.0×10^8 m s⁻¹)² = 9.0×10^16 J. Answer: 9.0×10^16 J.
Units/conclusion: The principle states that mass can be transformed into a large amount of energy, demonstrating mass‑energy equivalence.
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