Home
Back
Nuclear Reaction Q Value Equation:
| From: | To: |
The Q value of a nuclear reaction represents the energy released or absorbed during the reaction. A positive Q value indicates an exothermic reaction (energy released), while a negative Q value indicates an endothermic reaction (energy absorbed).
The calculator uses the nuclear reaction Q value equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation is derived from Einstein's mass-energy equivalence principle (E=mc²), where the mass difference between reactants and products is converted to energy.
Details: Calculating Q values is essential in nuclear physics for understanding reaction energetics, predicting reaction feasibility, and analyzing nuclear decay processes.
Tips: Enter the total mass of reactants and products in atomic mass units (amu). The calculator will compute the Q value in megaelectronvolts (MeV).
Q1: What does a positive Q value indicate?
A: A positive Q value indicates an exothermic reaction where energy is released, and the reaction is more likely to occur spontaneously.
Q2: What does a negative Q value indicate?
A: A negative Q value indicates an endothermic reaction where energy must be supplied for the reaction to occur.
Q3: Why is the speed of light squared used in the calculation?
A: The c² term converts mass to energy according to Einstein's famous equation E=mc², providing the energy equivalent of the mass difference.
Q4: What units are used for mass in this calculation?
A: Mass is typically measured in atomic mass units (amu), and the resulting energy is in megaelectronvolts (MeV).
Q5: Can this calculator be used for nuclear decay processes?
A: Yes, the same principle applies to nuclear decay, where the Q value represents the energy released during the decay process.