Work, Power and Energy: Advanced — Bound and Unbound States MCQ

Solve this quality-checked JEE multiple-choice question, then review the correct answer and explanation.

Timer-based practiceDetailed answer reviewMobile-friendly flow

Advanced — Bound and Unbound StatesHardQuestion 30484

Question

In a potential energy curve, a particle is said to be 'bound' when:

A
Total energy E > 0 always
B
Total energy E < U at the barriers (E < U_max)
Correct
C
Total energy E = 0
D
KE > PE always

Correct answer

Total energy E < U at the barriers (E < U_max)

Explanation

A particle is bound if its total energy E is less than the potential energy at the boundaries — it cannot escape. If E > U at all points, it is unbound (can go to infinity).

Review Work, Power and Energy notes Start timed chapter practice