Answer:
The three choices are correct where, choice (b) If the atoms are moved farther apart, they experience forces resisting the separation and begin to move toward each other. And for choice (c) If the atoms are pushed closer together, they experience forces resisting the compression and begin to move far away from each other. Choice (a) also correct where a spring exerts forces to bring balls (atoms) closer together and also exerts forces to move balls (atoms) apart.