During the formation of an atom from its constituent particles, how are energy and mass connected?

• A. Some mass is converted into binding energy, as described by Einstein's equation E = mc^2.
• B. Energy is only involved in the movement of electrons and does not relate to mass.
• C. Mass increases because energy is absorbed from the surroundings.
• D. Energy and mass remain completely independent and do not affect each other during atom formation.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that when an atom forms from its constituent particles (protons, neutrons, and electrons), the total mass of the atom is not simply the sum of the masses of these particles due to the energy involved in binding them together.
2. Recall Einstein's mass-energy equivalence principle, expressed by the equation \(E = mc^{2}\), where \(E\) is energy, \(m\) is mass, and \(c\) is the speed of light. This equation shows that mass can be converted into energy and vice versa.
3. Recognize that during atom formation, some mass is converted into binding energy, which is the energy required to hold the nucleus together. This binding energy is released when the nucleus forms, resulting in the atom having slightly less mass than the sum of its parts.
4. Note that this mass defect (the difference in mass) corresponds exactly to the binding energy via \(E = mc^{2}\), linking the concepts of mass and energy directly in the process of atom formation.
5. Conclude that energy and mass are not independent during atom formation; instead, some mass is converted into binding energy, demonstrating the fundamental connection between mass and energy.