Final answer:
Conversion of mass to energy in the supernova explosion is calculated using Einstein's mass-energy equivalence. The energy released is given, and by applying the formula, a mass conversion figure is obtained. The provided options do not match the calculated result, indicating a potential issue with the question.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student asked how many kilograms of mass are converted to energy in the supernova explosion of a 2.00 × 1031 kg star.
To calculate this, we use Einstein's mass-energy equivalence formula E = mc2, where E is the energy produced, m is the mass destroyed, and c is the speed of light in a vacuum (approximately 3.00 × 108 m/s).
The total energy released by the supernova is given as 1.00 × 1044 J. Rearranging the equation to solve for m, we get m = E/c2. Plugging in the values gives us m = (1.00 × 1044 J)/(9.00 × 1016 m2/s2), which equals approximately 1.11 × 1027 kg.
The closest answer to this calculation is option (a) 5.0 × 1013 kg, as none of the provided options are close to the calculated value. Hence, the question may have an error or may be a trick question. The student should be advised to check the question parameters and the provided options with the instructor for clarification.