Mass & Energy
Physics: IB Diploma Higher Level, topic 5.2.1
Mass and Energy
The nucleus of an atom is made up of protons and neutrons. When protons and neutrons combine to make an atom energy is released.
Binding energy
- A nucleus is made up of protons and neutrons.
- The mass of a nucleus is less than the mass of the individual protons and neutrons.
- This is because when the protons and neutrons combine they release energy.
- The energy released is called the binding energy.
Energy with mass
- Energy and mass can be linked through a very famous equation. The equation linking energy and mass is:
- Energy = mass x (the speed of light)
- If the change in mass between the individual particles and the mass of the nucleus is known, we can find the binding energy using this equation.
Test yourself on Mass & Energy
What is the equation which links energy and mass?
Which of these statements are true?