Why does potential energy increase as particles approach each other?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Repulsive forces increase. As particles approach each other, the distance between them decreases, causing the repulsive forces between the particles to increase. This increase in repulsive forces leads to an increase in potential energy as the particles resist being pushed closer together. Choices A and B are incorrect because attractive forces do not increase or decrease in this scenario. Choice D is incorrect because repulsive forces actually increase as particles get closer, leading to a rise in potential energy.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. The main difference between a scalar quantity and a vector quantity lies in the presence of direction. A vector quantity has both magnitude and direction, while a scalar quantity has magnitude only, without any specified direction. Examples of scalar quantities include distance, speed, temperature, and energy, whereas examples of vector quantities include displacement, velocity, force, and acceleration. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they incorrectly describe the characteristics of scalar and vector quantities.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Water has the highest density among the options provided. Density is a measure of mass per unit volume. In this case, water in its liquid form is denser than mist, steam, and ice. Ice has a lower density than water because its crystalline structure causes it to be less dense. Mist and steam are forms of water vapor, which are much less dense than liquid water. Therefore, the correct answer is water (choice B).

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The gravitational force between two objects is inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them. If the distance is doubled, the force will be reduced to 1/4 of the original force. Therefore, the new force of attraction between the two objects will be 12 units / 4 = 3 units. Choice A is correct because doubling the distance reduces the force to 1/4 of the original value. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not consider the inverse square relationship between distance and gravitational force.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The purpose of a switch in a circuit is to allow the circuit to open and close. When the switch is turned on, it provides a complete path for the current to flow through the circuit. When the switch is turned off, it breaks the circuit, stopping the flow of current. This function of opening and closing the circuit using a switch is essential for controlling the flow of electricity in various electrical devices and systems. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because a switch does not reverse the direction of current, increase voltage, or increase resistance in a circuit; its primary function is to open and close the circuit.