The binding energy of a H-atom, considering an electron moving around a fixed nuclei (proton), is . (m = electron mass). If one decides to work in a frame of reference where the electron is at rest, the proton would be moving around it. By similar arguments, the binding energy would be

Question

The binding energy of a H-atom, considering an electron moving around a fixed nuclei (proton), is

. (m = electron mass). If one decides to work in a frame of reference where the electron is at rest, the proton would be moving around it. By similar arguments, the binding energy would be

Philoid · Accepted Answer

As we know M ≫m i.e. mass of proton (M= 1.6726 x 10^-27 kg) is 1837 times heavier than mass of electron (m= 9.10938356 × 10^-31 kg) so due to this the centripetal force [a force that acts on a body (here electron) moving in a circular path and is directed towards the center around which (i.e. proton) the body is moving] F_centripetal

so from this formula we can say F_M ≫F_m. Hence due to this centripetal force, we can conclude that frame of reference is non-inertial because there is an acceleration present.

Therefore option (c) is correct.