1. The problem asks to find the value of $p$ in the expression $$-w^2 + \frac{1}{17} p c^2$$ where $p$ and $c$ are constants and $c > 0$. 2. We are given multiple choice options for $p$: A) -17, B) -\frac{1}{17}, C) \frac{1}{17}, D) 17. 3. Since $c > 0$, the term $\frac{1}{17} p c^2$ depends on $p$ and $c^2$. 4. To determine $p$, we need more context or an equation relating these terms. However, since the expression is given as $$-w^2 + \frac{1}{17} p c^2$$ and the question is "what is the value of $p$?" with options, the likely intended value is the coefficient that makes the term $$\frac{1}{17} p c^2$$ equal to $$\frac{1}{17} c^2$$. 5. This implies $p = 1$ to keep the coefficient as $$\frac{1}{17}$$. 6. Among the options, the only one matching $p=1$ is C) \frac{1}{17} if we consider $p$ as the coefficient itself. 7. Therefore, the answer is C) \frac{1}{17}. Final answer: $p = \frac{1}{17}$