The potential energy $U$ between two atoms in a diatomic molecule as a function of the distance $x$ between atom has been shown in the adjoining figure. The atoms are

• A

  Attracted when $x$ lies between $A \mathrm{a}\mathrm{n}\mathrm{d} B$ and are repelled when $x$ lies between $B \mathrm{a}\mathrm{n}\mathrm{d} C$
• Correct answer
  B

  Attracted when $x$ lies between $B \mathrm{a}\mathrm{n}\mathrm{d} C$ and are repelled when $x$ lies between $A \mathrm{a}\mathrm{n}\mathrm{d} B$
• C

  Attracted when they reach $B$
• D

  repelled when they reach $B$

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