Final answer:
Einstein's equation E = mc² describes the mass-energy equivalence and is calculated by multiplying the mass (m) by the speed of light squared (c²) to find the energy (Eo).
Step-by-step explanation:
The equation presented in the student's question, E = mc², is known as the mass-energy equivalence formula and originates from Albert Einstein's theory of special relativity. It expresses the concept that mass (m) can be converted into energy (E) and vice versa. Here, c represents the speed of light in a vacuum, which is a constant value. To calculate the energy (Eo) equivalent of a given mass, one would use the following steps:
- Identify the knowns: mass (m).
- Identify the unknown: Energy at rest (Eo).
- Choose the appropriate equation, which is Eo = mc².
- Do the calculation by plugging the known values into the equation to solve for Eo.
This equation was groundbreaking at the time of its inception and continues to be a fundamental concept in physics, significantly contributing to our understanding of matter and energy.