An electron of the kinetic energy `10 eV` collides with a hydrogen atom in `1st` excited state. Assuming loss of kinetic energy in the collision be to quantized which of the following statements is correct?

Options

A. The collision may be perfectly inelastic
B. The collision may be inelastic
C. The collision may be elastic
D. The collision must be inelastic

Answer

D

Explanation

In the process of collision, the electron (because of very low mass in comparison to hydrogen atom) can lose upto `10 eV. 10 eV` is sufficient to ionise the hydrogen atom or excite to higher excited state from first excited state.
Hence, the collision can be elastic, inelastic or perfectly inelastic.