MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #729

The energy of an electron in any orbit of a hydrogen atom is always negative. What is the physical significance of this negative sign?

MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #729

  1. Question 1

    Q1. The energy of an electron in any orbit of a hydrogen atom is always negative. What is the physical significance of this negative sign?

    • A) The electron has infinite energy
    • B) Work must be done to remove it
    • C) The electron is repelled by the nucleus
    • D) The electron is in a virtual state

    Answer: Work must be done to remove it

    Explanation: Energy is zero at infinity; as the electron approaches the nucleus, energy decreases below zero, making it more negative.