\[E=\gamma mc^2\]
Variables
Erelativistic energy (J)
gamma[γ]Lorentz factor
mrest mass (kg)
cspeed of light (m/s)
Description
What is this formula?
The relativistic energy formula calculates the total energy of an object moving at relativistic speeds. It combines rest energy and kinetic effects through the Lorentz factor.
When to use it
Use this formula when studying particles moving near the speed of light, high-energy systems, and special relativity problems.
Example
Data:
Mass:
m=0.001 kg
Lorentz factor:
γ=2
Formula:
E=γmc²
Substitution:
E=(2)(0.001)(3×10^8)²
Result:
E=1.8×10^14 J
Applications
- Particle accelerators
- High-energy physics
- Relativity
- Astrophysics
- Nuclear physics
- Space science