Kinetic Energy of Two Atoms System: r=r1

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the kinetic energy (K), potential energy (U), and the total energy (K+U) of a two-atom system in a vibrational state. The potential energy at r = r1 is given as U = -1.3 eV. After some contemplation, the user determined that K = 1.1 eV, leading to a total energy of K + U = -0.2 eV. The relationship between K and U is highlighted, noting their inverse proportionality in the context of the vibrational state. This solution provides clarity for others encountering similar problems in atomic energy calculations.
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Homework Statement



The figure shows a potential energy curve for the interaction of two neutral atoms. The two-atom system is in a vibrational state indicated by the heavy solid horizontal line.

(a) At r = r1, what are the approximate values of the kinetic energy K, the potential energy U, and the quantity K+U?
K =
U = -1.3 eV
K+U =

Homework Equations


U=0.5*Ks^2

The Attempt at a Solution


I can't for the life of me figure out how to find K, I feel like it should be really easy, but I'm at a loss of where to start.

If anyone could give me jumping off point at least I'd be very grateful. Thanks
 

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After taking a short break, I figured it out, and it was massively simple.
I'll post the answer here so that anyone else Googling in the future can find it.

K=1.1
U=-1.3
and K+U = -0.2

since they are inversely proportional, their sum must equal the vibration state.
 
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