Difference between revisions of "Matter-antimatter annihilation"
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'''Matter-antimatter annihilation''' is a theoretical form of power generation. The system brings particles of matter into contact with their oppositely charged anti-particles, allowing them to annihilate each other and release a burst of radiation. The system then converts the radiated energy into work. | '''Matter-antimatter annihilation''' is a theoretical form of power generation. The system brings particles of matter into contact with their oppositely charged [[Antimatter|anti-particles]], allowing them to annihilate each other and release a burst of radiation. The system then converts the radiated energy into work. | ||
The theoretical limit of M/AM annihilation power is defined by Einstein's classic equation of matter-energy equivalency: E=Mc<sup>2</sup>. | The theoretical limit of M/AM annihilation power is defined by Einstein's classic equation of matter-energy equivalency: E=Mc<sup>2</sup>. | ||
An obvious problem with M/AM annihilation power systems is the inherent difficulty of obtaining, containing, and transporting substantial quantities of [[antimatter]]. | An obvious problem with M/AM annihilation power systems is the inherent difficulty of obtaining, containing, and transporting substantial quantities of [[antimatter]]. | ||
==In Science Fiction== | |||
Matter-antimatter annihilation is a common means of generating power in [[science fiction]], especially [[Star Trek]]. The M-AM reactor used in Star Trek is called a [[warp core]]. | |||
[[Category: Science]] | [[Category: Science]] | ||
Latest revision as of 22:27, 10 November 2008
Matter-antimatter annihilation is a theoretical form of power generation. The system brings particles of matter into contact with their oppositely charged anti-particles, allowing them to annihilate each other and release a burst of radiation. The system then converts the radiated energy into work.
The theoretical limit of M/AM annihilation power is defined by Einstein's classic equation of matter-energy equivalency: E=Mc2.
An obvious problem with M/AM annihilation power systems is the inherent difficulty of obtaining, containing, and transporting substantial quantities of antimatter.
In Science Fiction
Matter-antimatter annihilation is a common means of generating power in science fiction, especially Star Trek. The M-AM reactor used in Star Trek is called a warp core.