Aim: -to explain how Einstein predicted the possibility of releasing enormous amounts of energy. -explain how scientists use theories to make predictions.

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5. Making predictions from theories

Aim: -to explain how Einstein predicted the possibility of releasing enormous amounts of energy.

-explain how scientists use theories to make predictions.

1. In 1905, was Einstein a nuclear physicist? Explain your answer.

No, because in 1905 Einstein was not even thinking about atom bombs. In fact, at this time, physicists did not know that atoms have a nucleus.

2a. what is the famous equation he published in his special theory of relativity?

The famous equation that he published in his special theory of relativity is:

 E=mc²

b. what does each symbol in the equation stand for?

3. The fission of uranium-235 produces nuclei of barium and krypton (and some spare neutrons).

a. how will the mass of the products compare with the mass of the uranium nucleus?

 The mass of the products will be less than the mass of the uranium nucleus.

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b.what prediction did Lise Meitner make about the amount of energy that would be released?

By using Einstein’s equation (E=mc²), she calculated that the fission reaction would release a million times more energy than a chemical reaction.

4. give an example, other than the special theory of relativity, of theories that can make predictions.

Another very successful and strong theory is Newton’s laws of motion which still continues to predict the paths of satellites and space rockets successfully.

5. Describe how Einstein’s theory eventually led to the exploding of the atom bomb. Make sure ...

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