Question

Two H-atoms in the ground state collide inelastically. The maximum amount by which their combined kinetic energy is reduced, is

Answer 1

Initial K.E of two hydrogen atoms in ground state =13.6ev 

K.E of both H atoms before collision =2×13.6=27.2v 

Since the collision is inelastic, linear momentum is conserved, but some K.E is lost. If one H atom goes to first excited state and the other remains in the ground state, then their