If two atoms A and B of a molecule are brought closer than their minimum inter-nuclear distance, then potential energy of the system
starts increasing
The explanation for the correct answer
(b) starts increasing
The explanation for the incorrect answer
(a) remains constant at a minimum value
When two atoms are brought close to their inter-nuclear distance, the electrons come closer to each other. Therefore, the potential energy does not remain constant at a minimum value.
(c) remains constant at maximum value
When two atoms are brought close to their inter-nuclear distance, the electrons come closer to each other. Therefore, the potential energy does not remain constant at a maximum value.
(d) starts decreasing
When two atoms are brought close to their inter-nuclear distance, the electrons come closer to each other and the potential energy starts to increase. Therefore, it does not decrease.
Therefore, If two atoms A and B of a molecule are brought closer than their minimum inter-nuclear distance, then the potential energy of the system starts increasing.
Hence, Option(b) is correct option.