question_answer 22)

        Two H atoms in the ground state collide inelastically. The maximum amount by which their combined kinetic energy is reduced is                   (a)                       (b)                             (c)                                          (a)                            

Answer:

  Initial K.E. of each of two hydrogen atoms in ground state KE of both H atoms before collision As the collision is inelastic, linear momentum is conserved, but some K.E. is lost. If one H atom goes over to first excited state and other remains in ground state, then their combined K.E. after collision   Reduction in combined