Is energy conserved in a nuclear explosion?

If the nucleus is at rest when it decays, its momentum is zero. In that case, the fragments must fly in opposite directions with equal-magnitude momenta so that total momentum remains zero. Total mass–energy is also conserved: the energy produced in the decay comes from conversion of a fraction of the original mass.

Is law of conservation of energy always valid?

The conservation of energy is an absolute law, and yet it seems to fly in the face of things we observe every day. The universe itself is a closed system, so the total amount of energy in existence has always been the same. The forms that energy takes, however, are constantly changing.

What is the law of conservation of energy simple definition?

conservation of energy, principle of physics according to which the energy of interacting bodies or particles in a closed system remains constant. For example, when a pendulum swings upward, kinetic energy is converted to potential energy.

What is the law of Conservation of energy in chemistry?

The law of conservation of energy is a physical law that states energy cannot be created or destroyed but may be changed from one form to another. Another way of stating this law of chemistry is to say the total energy of an isolated system remains constant or is conserved within a given frame of reference.

Does the law of Conservation of energy apply to a ball?

Conservation of energy applies only to isolated systems. A ball rolling across a rough floor will not obey the law of conservation of energy because it is not isolated from the floor. The floor is, in fact, doing work on the ball through friction. However, if we consider the ball and floor together, then conservation of energy will apply.

Is the total system momentum conserved after an explosion?

After the explosion, the total momentum of the system must still be zero. If the ball acquires 50 units of forward momentum, then the cannon acquires 50 units of backwards momentum. The vector sum of the individual momenta of the two objects is 0. Total system momentum is conserved.

Is mass energy conserved in special relativity?

In classical mechanics, conservation of mass and conversation of energy are considered to be two separate laws. However, in special relativity, matter may be converted into energy and vice versa, according to the famous equation E = mc 2. Thus, it’s more appropriate to say mass-energy is conserved.