Apentix/AP Chemistry/Unit 2: Molecular and Ionic Compound Structure and Properties/Question
AP Chemistrymediummcq1 pt

On a potential-energy curve for a diatomic molecule, what happens at internuclear separations shorter than the equilibrium bond length?

A.Energy plateaus because almost no forces act at short range
B.The bond breaks immediately upon compression
C.Energy falls further into a deeper well
D.Energy climbs steeply as like-charge repulsions come to dominate

Explanation

Core Concept

Inside the bond distance, electron clouds are forced to interpenetrate while the nuclei draw close, so electron-electron and nucleus-nucleus repulsions grow faster than crosswise attractions. The curve turns sharply upward, meaning external force must squeeze the atoms together against their resistance. This steep wall explains why molecules resist compression far more strongly than stretching.

Correct Answer

DEnergy climbs steeply as like-charge repulsions come to dominate

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