Question

In nuclear models, a negative kinetic energy value indicates:

• A. The system is in an unstable state.
• B. The system is in a stable state.
• C. The energy is being absorbed by the system.
• D. The system is not bound.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

To solve the problem, we need to understand what a negative kinetic energy value means in nuclear models.

1. Understanding Kinetic Energy in Nuclear Models:

- In physics, kinetic energy is usually positive because it represents the energy of motion.
- However, in certain nuclear models, especially when describing bound systems like nuclei, energy values can be considered differently.
- The total energy of a system can be negative, indicating that the system is bound and stable.

2. Interpretation of Negative Kinetic Energy:

- A negative kinetic energy value in nuclear models suggests the particle is in a bound state within the nucleus.
- It means the particle does not have enough energy to escape the nuclear potential well.
- The negative value reflects that energy must be supplied to remove (unbind) the particle from the nucleus.

3. Summary:

- Negative kinetic energy in nuclear models does not mean actual negative motion energy.
- It signifies the particle is tightly bound inside the nucleus and stable.

Final Answer:

In nuclear models, a negative kinetic energy value indicates that the particle is in a bound and stable state within the nucleus.