In: Physics
A proton is initially at rest at x = d and an electron is initially at rest at x = -d. At the same instant they are released. They subsequently
a) fly away from each other. |
b) | collide at x = 0. |
c) | collide close to x = d. |
d) | collide close to x = -d. |
e) | orbit each other. |
Proton and electron have charges that are same in magnitude and opposite in sign.
Hence these two attract each other and move closer to each other. Since there are no other external forces, the center of mass of the sytem does not move. The charges will mee at finally at the center of mass.
Proton and electron have masses that are in the ratio .
Initial distance between them is
Hence the center of mass of the system is at a distance
from proton and at a distance
from electron.
Hence the final meeting point (center of mass) is very close to
the initial position of proton (point ).