__________ of a two article system depends only on the separation between the two particles. The most appropriate choice for the blank space in the above sentence is

Options

A. kinetic energy
B. total mechanical energy
C. potential energy
D. total enerty

Answer

To solve the question, we need to identify the term that fits in the blank space, which describes a property of a two-particle system that depends solely on the separation between the two particles.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Context**: The question states that a certain property of a two-particle system depends only on the separation between the two particles. We need to determine which property this is.

2. **Analyzing Kinetic Energy**:
- Kinetic energy is the energy that a particle possesses due to its motion.
- It is dependent on the mass of the particle and its velocity, not on the distance between two particles.
- Therefore, kinetic energy cannot be the answer.

3. **Considering Mechanical Energy**:
- Mechanical energy is the sum of kinetic energy and potential energy.
- Since kinetic energy does not depend on separation, mechanical energy also cannot be solely dependent on the separation between particles.
- Hence, mechanical energy is not the appropriate choice.

4. **Examining Potential Energy**:
- Potential energy is the energy stored in a system due to its configuration or position.
- In the case of a two-particle system, the potential energy is influenced by the distance (or separation) between the two particles.
- For example, in gravitational or electrostatic systems, the potential energy is directly related to the distance between the particles.

5. **Conclusion**:
- Since potential energy is the only property that depends solely on the separation between the two particles, it is the most appropriate choice for the blank space in the sentence.
- Therefore, the complete statement is: "The potential energy of a two-particle system depends only on the separation between the two particles."

### Final Answer:
**Potential Energy**