A proton and an electron are released from rest, with only the electrostatic force acting. Which of the following statements must be true about them as they move toward each other? (There could
Be more than one correct choice.)
A) Their electric potential energy keeps increasing.
B) Their electric potential energy keeps decreasing.
C) Their kinetic energy keeps decreasing.
D) Their kinetic energy keeps increasing.
E) Their acceleration keeps decreasing.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

As a proton and an electron move toward each other due to the electrostatic force, their electric potential energy decreases because they are moving from a state of higher potential energy (when they are apart) to a state of lower potential energy (as they get closer). This decrease in electric potential energy is converted into kinetic energy, causing their kinetic energy to increase.

A Proton and an Electron Are Released from Rest, with Only