Is the concept of finite mass-energy in the universe outdated?

In summary, the concept of a finite amount of mass-energy in the universe depends on whether the universe is infinite or not. Additionally, as a particle accelerates, its mass does not actually increase, but rather its invariant mass remains constant. The equation e2=m2c4+p2c2 shows the relationship between energy and mass, and it is better understood as an equality rather than a conversion. This equation also takes into account the change in mass and momentum when one system performs work on another.
  • #1
Jobrag
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I've always understood that there's a fnite amount of mass energy in the universe, please correct me if this view is out of date. As a particle accelerates it's mass increases how does this square with not being able to create mass or energy?
 
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  • #3
Jobrag said:
I've always understood that there's a fnite amount of mass energy in the universe, please correct me if this view is out of date.

It depends on if the universe is infinite or not. We don't know either way yet.

As a particle accelerates it's mass increases how does this square with not being able to create mass or energy?

This is incorrect. The mass of a particle is always the same. Mass refers to "invariant mass", which is the mass of the particle in its own frame of reference.

Also, the equation is better thought of an equality and not a conversion. When one system performs work on another system, energy leaves the first system and is transferred to the second. This is accompanied by a change in mass of both systems, where the change in mass follows the equation e2=m2c4+p2c2. This is the full form of Einsteins equation and includes the contribution of momentum.
 

Related to Is the concept of finite mass-energy in the universe outdated?

What is energy mass conservation?

Energy mass conservation is a fundamental law in physics that states that energy and mass cannot be created or destroyed, but can only be transformed from one form to another.

Why is energy mass conservation important?

Energy mass conservation is important because it helps us understand the behavior of matter and energy in the universe. It allows us to make accurate predictions and calculations in various scientific fields, such as thermodynamics, nuclear physics, and cosmology.

Can energy and mass be converted into each other?

Yes, according to the famous equation E=mc^2, energy and mass are equivalent and can be converted into each other. This was demonstrated by Albert Einstein's theory of relativity.

Are there any exceptions to the law of energy mass conservation?

There are no known exceptions to the law of energy mass conservation. However, in certain extreme conditions, such as black holes, the law may seem to be violated. This is because our current understanding of physics is limited in these extreme scenarios.

How is energy mass conservation related to the concept of entropy?

Entropy is a measure of the disorder or randomness in a system. The law of energy mass conservation is related to entropy in that it states that the total amount of energy and mass in a closed system remains constant, but the entropy of the system tends to increase over time. This is known as the second law of thermodynamics.

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