Position Statement

• Einstein’s equation `E=mc^2` is among physics’ most important equations because it reveals mass-energy equivalence and explains fundamental processes from atomic to cosmic scales.

Nuclear Applications

• The equation explains energy from nuclear fission and fusion processes. It shows how tiny amounts of matter convert to enormous energy in nuclear reactions.
• The mass defect in atoms directly relates to binding energy through `E=mc^2` and this principle drives nuclear reactors that power cities and nuclear weapons.
• These applications are responsible for revolutionising both energy production and global politics.

Cosmic and Particle Physics

• Stars produce energy by converting mass to energy through fusion reactions. The Sun converts 4 million tonnes of mass to energy every second using this principle
• Particle accelerators create new particles by converting kinetic energy into mass. This allows scientists to study fundamental matter structure and discover new particles.
• Furthermore, mass dilation near light speed also follows from this mass-energy relationship.

Reinforcement

• While other equations like Newton’s gravity law are important, they lack the broad applicability of `E=mc^2`.
• No other single equation explains phenomena from subatomic particles to stellar processes.
• The equation unified our understanding of matter and energy as different forms of the same thing.
• This justifies calling `E=mc^2` one of history’s most important physics equations.