Two atoms are bound together in a molecule. The potential energy U resulting from their interaction is shown in Figure. The variable r is the distance between the atom centers, and E0 is the lowest (ground-state) energy.

(a) As a result of a collision, the molecule acquires a kinetic energy of vibration whose maximum value is 1.0 eV. With this kinetic energy, over what range of separation distance will the molecule vibrate?

(b) Give an approximate value for the force F(r) between the two atoms at r = 0.4 nm. Express your answer in units appropriate to those used on the graph.

(c) Calculate the force in (b) in Newton's. Is this force attractive orrepulsive?

Transcribed Image Text:

LUG), ev 0.35 0.2 0.25 0.3 0.45 0.5 r, nm -2 Eo