At some point, the repulsive force grows so strong that the atoms stop approach and begin to move apart, causing the potential energy of the system to decrease. In the box below, explain this behavior: why do the atoms repel and move apart? (Hint: think about the electrons.)
At some point, the repulsive force grows so strong that the atoms stop approach and begin to move apart, causing the potential energy of the system to decrease. In the box below, explain this behavior: why do the atoms repel and move apart? (Hint: think about the electrons.)
Physical Chemistry
2nd Edition
ISBN:9781133958437
Author:Ball, David W. (david Warren), BAER, Tomas
Publisher:Ball, David W. (david Warren), BAER, Tomas
Chapter15: Introduction To Electronic Spectroscopy And Structure
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 15.30E
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
Transcribed Image Text:At some point, the repulsive force grows so strong that
the atoms stop approach and begin to move apart,
causing the potential energy of the system to
decrease.
In the box below, explain this behavior: why do the
atoms repel and move apart? (Hint: think about the
electrons.)

Transcribed Image Text:After you watch for a few minutes, you'll notice that as
the atoms get very close to one another, the repulsive
force increases (symbolized by green force arrows that
point away from each other). This increase in the
repulsive force causes the potential energy of the
system (on the potential energy curve) to increase.
This is reproduced on the figure below, with specific
reference to the circled region.
Potential
Energy
Distance between atomic centers
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