Q14 / 250 · NTA Abhyas (NEET) 2020 · Physics · Electrostatics

A proton and an electron are released from an infinite distance apart and they get attracted towards each other. Which of the following statement about their kinetic energy is true?

  • Correct answer
    A
    Kinetic energy of electron is more than that of proton
  • B
    Kinetic energy of electron is less than that of proton
  • C
    Kinetic energy of electron = kinetic energy of proton
  • D
    None of the above is true as it depends on the distance between the particles

Solution

Proton and electron move under the influence of their mutual electrostatic attraction. Therefore momentum is conserved i.e. constant, hence K=p22m. As electron has less mass, it possesses greater kinetic energy.

Hence, the correct answer is option: 'A'.

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