1. What is the Q Value?

The Q value represents the energy released or absorbed during a nuclear reaction. It's calculated as the difference between the mass of reactants and products multiplied by the speed of light squared (c²).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Q value equation:

Where:

• \( M_{react} \) — Mass of reactants (unified atomic mass units, u)
• \( M_{prod} \) — Mass of products (unified atomic mass units, u)
• \( c^2 \) — Conversion factor (931.494 MeV/u)

Explanation: A positive Q value indicates an exothermic reaction (energy released), while a negative Q value indicates an endothermic reaction (energy absorbed).

3. Importance of Q Value Calculation

Details: Q values are crucial in nuclear physics for understanding reaction energetics, predicting reaction feasibility, and designing nuclear experiments.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter reactant and product masses in unified atomic mass units (u). The calculator uses c² = 931.494 MeV/u for conversion.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What units should I use for mass?
A: The calculator expects masses in unified atomic mass units (u). 1 u = 1.660539 × 10⁻²⁷ kg.

Q2: What does a positive Q value mean?
A: A positive Q value indicates the reaction releases energy (exothermic), while negative means it requires energy input (endothermic).

Q3: Where can I find nuclear mass data?
A: The NNDC (National Nuclear Data Center) provides comprehensive nuclear data tables.

Q4: How accurate is this calculation?
A: The calculation is theoretically exact, but accuracy depends on the precision of your mass measurements.

Q5: Can this be used for all nuclear reactions?
A: Yes, this equation applies to any nuclear reaction where you know the reactant and product masses.