Sign of binding Energy

[Krushnaraj Pandya]

Homework Statement

Is the binding energy for a hydrogen like atom equal to the total energy (negative) or the negative of the total energy (thus positive)?

2. The attempt at a solution
I found varying answers and definitions, some places said binding energy's the energy required to disassemble the system so it must be negative others said that to indicate that the system is bound it has to be negative. I decided I shouldn't get confused too much and just ask the experts on PF, Thank you :D

 

[haruspex]

the energy required to disassemble the system so it must be negative

Did you mean, so it must be positive?

 

[Krushnaraj Pandya]

Did you mean, so it must be positive?

yes, sorry- I mistyped

 

[Krushnaraj Pandya]

yes, sorry- I mistyped

so for example is the BE of hydrogen 13.6 eV or -13.6 eV?

 

[Krushnaraj Pandya]

Did you mean, so it must be positive?

Since you quoted that specifically, I'll assume BE is positive. Thank you very much for your help :D

 

[haruspex]

Since you quoted that specifically, I'll assume BE is positive. Thank you very much for your help :D

I was just clarifying your question, but yes, from what I read, it is expressed as positive.

 

[Krushnaraj Pandya]

Thank you :D