The volume of a sphere is given by 34πR3.
So the volume of the two small mercury drops each of radius R is 2×34πR3.
When they coalesce to form a larger drop, the volume is conserved. So, the volume of the larger drop is also 2×34πR3.
Let's denote the radius of this large drop as R′.
Therefore, 2×34πR3=34πR′3.
Solving for R′, we get R′=21/3R.
Now, the surface energy of a sphere is proportional to its surface area, and the surface area of a sphere is given by 4πR2.
So, the ratio of total surface energy before and after the change is:
4π(21/3R)22×4πR2=22/32=21/3:1