A satellite is powered by a small nuclear generator that puts out 15 W.How much matter is converted into energy over the 10 year life span of the generator?
A)53 µg
B)53 g
C)16 g
D)16 kg

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

We can use the equation E=mc^2 to find the amount of matter converted into energy. 
First, we need to find the total energy produced by the generator over 10 years:

15 W x 10 years x 365.25 days/year x 24 hours/day x 3600 seconds/hour = 4.73 x 10^12 J

Next, we can plug this value into the equation and solve for mass:

4.73 x 10^12 J = m (3 x 10^8 m/s)^2 
m = (4.73 x 10^12 J) / (9 x 10^16 m^2/s^2) 
m = 5.25 x 10^-5 kg 
m = 53 µg

Therefore, the answer is A) 53 µg.

A Satellite Is Powered by a Small Nuclear Generator That