Modern Physics
Mass-Energy Equivalence
The most famous equation in physics. Mass and energy are equivalent and interconvertible.
Variables
EJ
Rest energy
mkg
Rest mass
Allowed values: greater than 0
cm/s
Speed of light
Allowed values: greater than 0
Derivation
Derived from the relativistic energy-momentum relation for a particle at rest.
Your notes
0/5000
Constants in this formula
Other modern physics formulas with the same quantities
- Relativistic Momentum (Special Relativity) shares Rest mass, Speed of light
- Relativistic Kinetic Energy (Special Relativity) shares Rest mass, Speed of light
- Lorentz Factor (Special Relativity) shares Speed of light
- Time Dilation (Special Relativity) shares Speed of light
- Length Contraction (Special Relativity) shares Speed of light
- Relativistic Velocity Addition (Special Relativity) shares Speed of light
Where this formula is listed
- Modern Physics formulas, under Special Relativity, alongside Relativistic Doppler Effect, Proper Time and Relativity of Simultaneity.
- In the modern physics list it comes after Relativistic Momentum and before Relativistic Total Energy.
- Modern Physics formula sheet, one of 41 formulas printed with symbol keys and SI units.
- The full formula index, grouped by category and topic.
Common questions
What is the Mass-Energy Equivalence formula?
Mass-Energy Equivalence is written E = mc². The most famous equation in physics. Mass and energy are equivalent and interconvertible. It belongs to Modern Physics, under Special Relativity.
What are the units in E = mc²?
In SI units, E is rest energy, measured in J; m is rest mass, measured in kg; c is speed of light, measured in m/s.
How is the Mass-Energy Equivalence formula derived?
Derived from the relativistic energy-momentum relation for a particle at rest. The result is E = mc².