Potential Energy of a Proton Near a Positively Charged Sphere: Does it Decrease?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the potential energy of a proton as it approaches a positively charged sphere. The consensus is that the potential energy decreases (B) due to the repulsive forces acting on the proton. While one participant argues that work must be done to bring the proton closer, the prevailing view is that the potential energy decreases as the proton moves into a region of higher electric potential energy due to repulsion.

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daniel69
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A proton is brought near a positively charged sphere. As it is brought closer its potential energy...

A. increases
B. decreases
C. remains the same
D. cannot determine

Does it decrease (B) because same forces repel causing a decrease in PE?
 
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I would say that it increases because you need to do some work in order to bring the proton near the positively charged sphere.
 

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