Question

When two particles with like charges that are not interacting get close enough to interact with one another, is the change in energy positive or negative?

a) Positive
b) Negative
c) No change in energy
d) Depends on the charge magnitude

Answer 1

The change in energy is positive when two particles with like charges get close enough to interact with one another.

Step-by-step explanation:

The change in energy when two particles with like charges that are not interacting get close enough to interact with one another is positive. This means that the energy of the system increases. When two particles with like charges are brought closer together, work needs to be done on the system to overcome the repulsive force between them. This work is positive, resulting in an increase in energy.