Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Einstein's equation, also known as the mass-energy equivalence formula, is a fundamental equation in physics that states E=mc². It shows the relationship between energy (E), mass (m), and the speed of light (c).
Related terms
Special Relativity: The theory developed by Albert Einstein that describes how space and time are connected and how they are affected by motion.
General Relativity: Another theory developed by Albert Einstein that explains gravity as the curvature of spacetime caused by massive objects.
Nuclear Energy: The energy released during nuclear reactions, such as fusion or fission, where small amounts of matter are converted into large amounts of energy.