MHT CET2007PhysicsDual Nature of Matter
In bringing an electron towards another electron, the electrostatic potential energy of the system
Options
- Adecreases
- Bincreases
- Cremains same
- Dbecomes zero
Correct answer
B. increases
Step-by-step solution
The electron has negative charge. When an electron is approaching towards another electron, then due to same negative charge repulsive force is produced between them. So, to bring them closer a work is done against this repulsive force. This work is stored in the form of electrostatic potential energy. Thus, electrostatic potential energy of system increases. Alternative Electrostatic potential energy of system of two electrons U= 1 4 ₀ (-e)(-e) r = 1 4 ₀ e² r Thus, as r decreases, potential energy U increases.