Einstein's Energy-Mass Equivalence (E=mc²)

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Einstein's Energy-Mass Equivalence, expressed by the equation \( E = mc^2 \), revolutionized the understanding of mass and energy conversion. Introduced in 1905 as part of his theory of special relativity, this concept reveals that mass and energy are interchangeable forms of the same physical entity. The equation shows that even a small amount of mass can be converted into a large amount of energy, and vice versa, due to the large value of the speed of light squared (\( c^2 \)). This principle has profound implications in physics, particularly in nuclear reactions like fission and fusion, where small amounts of mass are converted into significant amounts of energy. It explains phenomena such as the energy output of stars and the operation of nuclear power plants. The equation is foundational to understanding the universe's energy dynamics and has far-reaching applications in science and technology.