Another seemingly very easy question (Energy)

  • Thread starter Thread starter PolyFX
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Energy
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on analyzing a graph of potential energy versus interatomic separation for a diatomic molecule. The user seeks clarification on how to represent kinetic energy on this graph, specifically at the interatomic separation denoted as r0. The user concludes that the line representing kinetic energy should extend from 1 to 2, indicating that this range corresponds to an unbound state where the molecule can separate. Additionally, the user inquires about the appearance of total energy when plotted against interatomic separation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of potential energy and kinetic energy concepts in physics.
  • Familiarity with diatomic molecules and their energy states.
  • Knowledge of graph interpretation, particularly in the context of energy vs. separation.
  • Basic grasp of the equations K + U = E and 0.5Ks² = E.
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore the concept of potential energy curves for diatomic molecules.
  • Learn about the relationship between kinetic energy and potential energy in molecular systems.
  • Investigate how to graph total energy as a function of interatomic separation.
  • Study the implications of bound vs. unbound states in molecular physics.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on molecular dynamics and energy interactions, as well as educators looking for examples of energy analysis in diatomic molecules.

PolyFX
Messages
30
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



The diagram below is a graph of potential energy vs. interatomic separation for a particular diatomic molecule (that is, a molecule consisting of two atoms).

2iqlitf.gif


For the energy level shown on the graph, imagine drawing a line whose length represents the kinetic energy when the interatomic separation is r0. This line runs from where to where?

Homework Equations



K+U=E?
0.5Ks^2=E

The Attempt at a Solution


I always have problems analyzing graphs. I got the latter parts of this question correct which involved doing calculations. However, I can't seem to get this one. The only reasonable answer I can come up with is from 1 to 2 since that would make the molecule unbound and allow it to separate (break apart). Any help on this question would be much appreciated.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
If you were to draw the total energy on the same graph as a function of r, what would it look like?
 

Similar threads

Potential/Kinetic Energy of Particles in Harmonic Oscillator
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Graphing Kinetic Energy of a Toy Car Released from a Compressed Spring
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
18K
Potential energy of ball thrown upwards
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
14K
Energy and root mean square velocity question
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Correct Setup for Finite Difference to Calculate Quantum Tunneling
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
What Is the Minimum Energy Required to Break a Molecule Apart?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
6K
Potential energy equation to force equation?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K
Estimating the vibrational frequency of Hydrogen molecule
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
13K
Simple Energy Question based on SHM
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Finding Force in Potential Energy vs. Interatomic Distance graph
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
12K