Question

Consider a one-dimensional motion of a particle with total energy E. There are four regions A, B, C and D in which the relation between potential energy V, kinetic energy (K) and total energy E is as given below:

Region A: V > E

Region B: V < E

Region C: K > E

Region D: V > K

Which of the following regions the particle cannot be found?

• A. Region A
• B. Region B
• C. Region C
• D. Region D

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

Region A

Answer 2

Total energy of the particle

= kinetic energy + potential energy

E = K + V or K = E – V

Since kinetic energy can never be negative. The particle cannot be found in the region where its kinetic energy would become negative.

In region A, V > E

$\therefore$k becomes negative in this region. Hence, the particle cannot be found in region A.