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 [[anti-matter]].
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.