Rest Energy Calculator
Calculate the rest energy of an object using Einstein’s famous equation E=mc²
About Rest Energy
Rest energy is the energy associated with an object’s mass when it is at rest. According to Einstein’s theory of relativity, mass and energy are equivalent and can be converted into one another.
The Rest Energy Formula
The rest energy (E) of an object can be calculated using the equation:
Where:
- E = Rest energy (in joules or other energy units)
- m = Mass of the object (in kilograms)
- c = Speed of light in vacuum (299,792,458 m/s)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is rest energy?
Rest energy is the energy that an object possesses due to its mass when it is at rest. It represents the energy equivalent of matter according to Einstein’s mass-energy equivalence principle.
Why is the speed of light squared in the equation?
The speed of light squared (c²) serves as the conversion factor between mass and energy. It’s a fundamental constant that shows how a small amount of mass corresponds to a tremendous amount of energy.
Can rest energy be converted to other forms of energy?
Yes, in nuclear reactions and particle-antiparticle annihilation, rest mass can be converted to other forms of energy. This is the principle behind nuclear power and atomic weapons.