Physics formula reference

Mass Energy Equivalence

Relates rest energy to mass.

Open in editor
LaTeXE=mc^2

Variables

  • E: rest energy
  • m: mass
  • c: speed of light

How to use this formula

Relates rest energy to mass.

Important notes

  • This is the rest-energy relation, not a complete statement of all relativistic energy.

Quick example

One kilogram corresponds to about 9×10¹⁶ joules.

Applicability, worked calculation, and verification

Assumptions and domain checks

  • This is the rest-energy relation, not a complete statement of all relativistic energy.
  • Use dimensionally consistent units and the sign, coordinate, and reference-frame conventions stated for the problem.

Worked example

Input

Output

One kilogram corresponds to about 9×10¹⁶ joules.

Common mistakes

  • Do not combine values with inconsistent units or sign conventions in Mass Energy Equivalence; perform a dimensional check before accepting the result.
  • Verify the result of Mass Energy Equivalence with a known case, inverse operation, dimensional check, or independent calculation before publishing it.

Continue the workflow

Use Mass Energy Equivalence in your own work

  1. Check the domainMatch the variables and assumptions to the problem before substituting values.
  2. Copy the exact notationPreserve grouping, signs, and exponents in E=mc^2.
  3. Edit or convertOpen the expression in the LaTeX editor, then export it for your document or web page.

Review and verification

Last reviewed: 2026-07-23

Automated quality check: Kept noindex until the missing evidence is supplied.

Formula references

  • College Physics 2eOpenStax, Rice University — Reviewed physical quantities, units, mechanics, energy, waves, electricity, and applied formulas.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Mass Energy Equivalence used for?

Relates rest energy to mass.

Can I copy this formula as LaTeX?

Yes. Copy E=mc^2 or open it in the LaTeX editor.

What should I check before using it?

Confirm that each variable, unit, domain restriction, and assumption matches the problem.

Reuse, attribution, and correction

Share this reference without losing its source

Copy a citation, permanent link, Markdown link, or self-contained embed card. Each reusable format points readers back to the maintained canonical page.

Report an issue

Search the whole reference

Symbols, formulas, guides, tools and commands

Start typing to search.

move · Enter open · Esc close