In many problems where the potential energy is considered between two objects, the potential energy is defined as zero when the particles are in infinite distance apart. Using the definition of potential energy, explain why the potential energy would be positive if the force between the particles is repulsive and negative if the force between the particles is attractive for noninfinite distances.

Question

Fonzie

Engineering

12 March, 18:31

In many problems where the potential energy is considered between two objects, the potential energy is defined as zero when the particles are in infinite distance apart. Using the definition of potential energy, explain why the potential energy would be positive if the force between the particles is repulsive and negative if the force between the particles is attractive for noninfinite distances.

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Oconnor · Answer 1

potential energy=ε Qq/r. Putting values of charge along with sign and calculating the potential energy will tell whether the resultant force is attractive or repulsive.

Explanation:

potential energy=ε Qq/r

q and Q are charges on each particle

So in case the particles have attractive force between them, one particle will be negative and the other will be positiive. The result will be negative.

In case the particles have repulsive forces, the charge on both particles will be either positive or negative. The result will be positive