Question
In fusion of hydrogen isotopes into helium the decrease in mass is about 0.65%. Calculate the energy obtainable when 1.0 gram of hydrogen is used. [ c = 3.0 x 108 m/s]
Answer
Data:
Mass defect, m = (0.65 / 100) x 1.0g
but 1.0 g = (1/1000) kg = 0.001 kg
Hence, m = (0.65/100) x 0.001 kg = 6.5 x 106 kg
The energy obtained, E = mc2 = (6.5 x 106) x (3.0 x 108)2 = 5.85 x 1011 J
E = 5.85 x 1011 Joules
